How to Steer for Beginners?
3 Answers
Here are the instructions for beginners on how to steer: 1. Correctly grasp the steering wheel with both hands placed at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions on the left and right sides respectively: fingers curl inward from the outside, thumbs naturally extend along the inner edge of the wheel rim. After holding the wheel, adjust your legs and sit upright, looking straight ahead. 2. Master the correct steering technique: after completing a full turn with both hands, the grip points should return to the 3 and 9 o'clock positions. As the left hand pushes to the right, the right hand hovers; when the left hand can't push further, change the gesture to a downward press while the right hand moves to the grip point to assist, forming a push-pull motion. 3. Steer gently without abrupt movements, favoring smoothness over haste: on straight roads, minimize steering adjustments. The faster the speed, the smaller the steering and return angles should be. When making U-turns or sharp turns, slow down before turning the steering wheel.
When I coach beginners in driving, I always emphasize that the steering wheel is fundamental. The grip should be at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions, with hands not too tight to avoid fatigue while driving. For turning, use the push-pull method: for a left turn, push with the right hand and pull with the left; for a right turn, push with the left hand and pull with the right. This ensures smooth movements and avoids crossing hands, which can be dangerous. When straightening the wheel, keep your eyes forward and gently return the wheel to maintain a straight path. Common mistakes beginners make include jerking the wheel or forgetting to straighten it. I recommend practicing turns at low speeds in an open area to get familiar with the wheel's feedback. Safety comes first—avoid distractions like checking your phone while turning, and maintain a relaxed posture. Practicing a few laps daily for one or two weeks will naturally make it feel effortless.
As a safe driving advocate, I believe that how beginners steer the wheel is a matter of life and death. The standard 9 and 3 o'clock hand positions enhance control and prevent loss of vehicle control during emergency lane changes. Use the push-pull steering technique to avoid crossing hands, which slows reaction time and may cause accidents. Adjust steering force based on speed—lighter at low speeds and firmer at high speeds to prevent skidding. Common issues like oversteering or understeering can easily lead to collisions, so practice straightening techniques to align wheels accurately. I recommend beginners repeatedly practice in parking lots while focusing on target points to develop habits that improve road safety awareness. Full concentration is essential while driving.
