When Should Beginners Turn the Steering Wheel?
3 Answers
Left hand at the 9 o'clock position, right hand at the 3-4 o'clock position, with the thumbs gripping the inner side of the steering wheel and the other four fingers wrapping around the outer side. When making a left turn, first activate the left turn signal, then use the left hand to turn the steering wheel to the left while the right hand assists in pushing leftward. When making a right turn, first activate the right turn signal, then use the right hand to turn the steering wheel to the right while the left hand assists in pushing rightward. Making a U-turn is an unavoidable skill in daily driving. There are two scenarios for U-turns: first, when there's ample space ahead, you can "take a wide turn." The key to navigating consecutive curves lies in deceleration. Before entering a curve, you can lean slightly to the right. If turning right, you can lean to the left.
When I first started driving, I used to struggle with the timing of turns. Then I realized the key is to watch the position of the car's front end! Slow down before entering the turn, and when the edge of the hood is about to touch the inner curb, start turning the wheel steadily. Remember to turn the steering wheel smoothly as if in slow motion—never yank it abruptly like grabbing the wheel. While turning, use your peripheral vision to check the mirrors and ensure the rear wheels don't hit the curb. Don't rush to straighten the wheel when exiting the turn; wait until the car's front is aligned before gently releasing the steering wheel. The other day, while turning on a narrow road in my neighborhood, I deliberately waited until the front wheels passed the speed bump before starting to turn. Checking the mirrors, I saw the tires were exactly a fist's distance from the curb—perfect!
During driving lessons, my instructor taught me a rough trick: don’t turn the wheel until you see the end of the curve—that’s a sure way to flip! The correct method is to slow down to under 30 km/h about 10 meters before the curve, keeping your eyes fixed on the entrance of the turn. Start steering when your shoulder aligns with the turning point’s parallel line. Remember not to turn the wheel all the way; leave half a turn for flexible adjustments. Once on a rainy day while turning, I spotted the reflective glow on the road ahead, signaling water accumulation, so I deliberately slowed down and turned gently, avoiding any wheel slip. Now, I handle turns as if carrying a bowl of hot soup—smooth and steady.
