Should the steering wheel be turned towards the wider side in an S-curve?
3 Answers
Should the steering wheel be turned towards the wider side in an S-curve? Here are some introductions about S-curves: 1. Precautions: Use the rearview mirror to check the rear. Turn the steering wheel towards the side where the rear of the car is wider. Beginners should avoid reversing too quickly and make corrections as needed. Avoid collisions. Generally, do not turn the steering wheel to the maximum to prevent the front corners of the car from scraping. It's best to have someone observe and remind from outside the car. 2. Principle: Steering follows the principle of 'turn as much as you return, turn quickly and return quickly, turn slowly and return slowly.' For example, if the left rear of the car is wider, turn the steering wheel 90 degrees to the left. When the desired effect is about to be achieved, return 90 degrees to the right. The same logic applies to the speed of turning.
I remember feeling quite confused the first time I encountered an S-curve, always thinking that the wider side of the curve required turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction. Actually, this is a misunderstanding. When driving through an S-curve, the key is to adjust according to the actual direction of each curve: turn the steering wheel left when turning left, and right when turning right—it has nothing to do with the road width. An S-curve consists of two consecutive curves, so you need to slow down in advance, keep an eye on the road ahead, and prepare for the next curve immediately after passing the first one. When I was learning to drive, my instructor said that beginners often turn the wheel incorrectly, causing the car to veer off course. Practicing by simulating a few curves in an open area can help. Drive more to familiarize yourself with the route, keep your speed low, and focus your gaze on the distant curve point to navigate it smoothly.
During my daily commute on mountain roads with S-curves, I find the most reliable method is to focus on the curve's arc rather than its width. Simply steer in the direction of the curve: left for left curves, right for right curves. The key is to maintain a constant speed and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, as these can cause excessive car sway. Once, in a hurry to get home, I nearly lost control but fortunately stabilized the steering wheel. In S-curves, it's essential to follow the road's natural flow and not overthink the width. Mastering this technique will make driving safer even in rain or snow.
