How to Steer When Turning a Car?
3 Answers
Hold the left hand at the 9 o'clock position and the right hand at the 3-4 o'clock position, with the thumb on the inside of the steering wheel and the other four fingers on the outside. First, turn on the left turn signal, use the left hand to steer to the left, and assist with the right hand pushing to the left. After turning, use the right hand to steer back to the right. First, turn on the right turn signal, use the right hand to steer to the right, and assist with the left hand pushing to the right. After turning, use the left hand to steer back to the center. Making a U-turn is an unavoidable skill in daily driving. There are two scenarios: first, if there is ample space ahead, you can "take a wide turn." The key to navigating continuous curves is to slow down. Before entering a curve, you can lean slightly to the right. If turning right, you can lean slightly to the left.
I've been driving for many years, and anticipation is what I value most when steering through turns. Before approaching a curve, I start slowing down and place both hands flat on the steering wheel at roughly the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. When turning, I don't jerk the wheel but smoothly rotate it in the direction of the turn while keeping my eyes fixed on the exit of the curve to avoid overcorrection. Whether it's a left or right turn, I always ensure the steering wheel returns smoothly to prevent tire scrubbing or weight transfer. On slippery roads, I'm even more cautious—maintaining steady speed is key, avoiding sudden acceleration or braking. Experience has taught me that early anticipation reduces accident risks, makes driving safer and more comfortable, and even saves fuel. Practicing cornering techniques, like simulating tight turns in parking lots, is highly beneficial.
When I first started learning to drive, turning the steering wheel was a complete mess—I would fumble and turn it haphazardly. Later, I learned to hold the wheel lightly without using too much force, look first toward where the curve leads, and let my hands follow my gaze to turn gradually. The same principle applies to both right and left turns: avoid making sharp, large turns all at once and instead make small adjustments. The car tends to sway during turns, so maintaining balance is crucial. During practice, I started at slow speeds and gradually increased them as I got more comfortable. With fewer mistakes, my confidence grew. I also learned to match the car’s angle with its speed—going too fast can easily cause you to overshoot the curve, so safety comes first. Practicing turns a few times every day on the road has made me much more skilled now.
