Is it okay to drive with one hand on the steering wheel?

[DeAndrew]

It is possible to drive with one hand on the steering wheel. One-handed steering: With one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the gear lever, ready to shift gears. However, when driving on uneven road surfaces, this can easily cause the hand to slip off the wheel. Mahjong-style grip: If the palms are sweaty or the steering wheel surface is excessively worn, this grip can easily lead to slipping. Tractor-style grip: Steering with one hand while resting the other on the leg. On uneven roads, this can easily cause the hand to lose contact with the wheel. Hands at 5 and 7 o'clock positions: This grip involves making small adjustments when turning. In situations requiring sharp turns or sudden maneuvers, this posture may result in insufficient steering control, which is extremely dangerous.

[Rogers]

I remember trying to operate the steering wheel with one hand while driving and found it quite convenient, but later learned about the potential dangers. Especially at high speeds or during sharp turns, one-handed control is less stable than using both hands, which can easily lead to understeering or oversteering. According to traffic data, many accidents involve drivers being distracted while operating the steering wheel. I recommend developing the habit of briefly using one hand only in safe environments, such as driving at low speeds on open roads. If you must divert your attention to other tasks, like adjusting the audio or drinking water, it's best to pull over. The core of safe driving is maintaining vigilance and reducing unnecessary risks. After all, although vehicles have assistance features like cruise control, they cannot completely replace the driver's focus. Remember, ensuring the safety of yourself and others is more important than a little convenience.

[VonReagan]

When I first started learning to drive, I always wanted to slack off by using one hand, but the driving school instructor repeatedly emphasized that this increases accident rates. Holding the steering wheel with both hands provides better control, especially on slippery roads or when suddenly encountering pedestrians or vehicles, allowing for quicker reactions. I personally experienced a near skid in the rain while driving one-handed, which scared me badly. Legally, while many places don't explicitly prohibit it, they advocate for safe driving practices that require both hands. Beginners especially should avoid one-handed driving as developing good habits is crucial. If you really need to operate with one hand, such as when shifting gears, ensure the road conditions are safe and quickly return to using both hands. Driving is not just a skill but also a reflection of responsibility awareness.

[May]

Having driven for many years, I understand why drivers often use one hand, especially switching to the left hand when the right gets tired on long trips. This might be fine on smooth stretches, but don't rely on it. In emergencies or when turning, firmly gripping the wheel with both hands is definitely safer. I know experienced drivers who've had collisions due to one-handed mistakes. Although modern cars are better designed, human control comes first. Try to keep both hands on the wheel—getting home safely is what matters most.