North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

At what positions on the steering wheel should you place your hands during driving?

1. 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock

2. 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock

3. 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock

4. 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock

The correct answer is: 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock

Placing your hands at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions on the steering wheel is widely regarded as the safest and most effective grip while driving. This hand placement provides optimal steering control, allowing for greater maneuverability and responsiveness to road conditions and emergencies. Additionally, this position enhances the driver's ability to maintain balance and stability while driving. It reduces the risk of arm fatigue during long periods of driving and enables the driver to quickly react and turn the wheel without losing grip or strength. In terms of safety features, if the vehicle is equipped with airbags, this hand positioning minimizes the potential for injury. When an airbag deploys, it delivers force from the front; placing hands at 9 and 3 allows the driver's arms to remain clear of this impact zone, thereby reducing the risk of injury to the arms and face. Other positions, such as the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock grip, can be effective but have been deemed less optimal due to the increased risk of injury from an airbag deployment and reduced leverage. Positions such as 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock or 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock do not offer the same level of control and response needed for effective driving, particularly