Why is driving with one hand more stable than with two hands?
3 Answers
Generally, driving with both hands is more stable. Holding the steering wheel with both hands is the safest and most standard grip method, with both hands firmly positioned at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. When turning the steering wheel to the left: Many people prefer to use their right hand to reach around the steering wheel, thinking it saves effort. However, this is highly dangerous. In case of an emergency, the hand inside the steering wheel can easily get stuck or even broken, and the arm is also prone to injury. When turning the steering wheel: Do not use one hand to turn the wheel back and forth while the other hand rests on the gear shift. This is a very bad habit that not only increases driving risks but can also damage the transmission.
As a veteran long-haul driver with decades of experience, I've found that driving with one hand sometimes feels more stable, especially when cruising straight on highways. Holding the top of the steering wheel with my right hand while resting my left hand comfortably on my lap helps relieve shoulder fatigue and creates a more relaxed posture. This gives an illusion of stability, but it's not actually safer. In reality, steering wheels are designed for balanced two-handed operation to achieve precise steering and prevent deviations caused by sudden road bumps. When encountering curves or emergency braking, single-handed control is far less reliable than using both hands and can easily cause vehicle sway. I've seen novices imitate this habit, only to lose control on slippery roads. For daily driving, I recommend firmly gripping the wheel at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions to ensure genuine stability and safety. The comfort of single-handed driving is merely a temporary illusion.
As a young urban commuter, I often drive with one hand during my daily commute. In areas with frequent traffic lights, it saves effort and allows me to adjust the music or water bottle, making the driving process more relaxed. Some people feel it's more stable, perhaps because the motion feels natural and doesn't tense up the arms as much as using both hands. But honestly, during turns or acceleration, I clearly feel less control, with the car body slightly drifting. Research shows that a car's steering system has power assistance and feedback mechanisms, and using both hands distributes force evenly, improving grip. Driving with one hand can lead to mistakes due to fatigue or distraction—like the time I nearly hit the curb. For safety, it's best to prioritize using both hands, especially at high speeds, where stability isn't just about comfort but critical control.
