At what hand position should a driver maintain their hand on the steering wheel while driving?

Maintaining your hands at the 3 and 9 position on the steering wheel is advised for several reasons related to safety and vehicle control. This position provides optimal leverage for steering, allowing for better handling of the vehicle, especially in emergency situations where quick maneuvers are necessary. Additionally, keeping hands at this position helps to prevent obstruction of the driver's view of the dashboard, allowing for better monitoring of essential vehicle information.

This position also aligns with modern vehicle designs, particularly those equipped with airbags. In the event of an airbag deployment, having your hands at 3 and 9 reduces the risk of injury, as it minimizes the likelihood of your arms being forced back toward your face.

While the 10 and 2 position used to be standard, it is now deemed less favorable due to changes in airbag technology that prioritize the 3 and 9 position for safety. The 12 o'clock position is not practical for driving, as it limits the driver's ability to control the vehicle effectively, nor is the 7 and 5 position advisable, as it can lead to poor handling during turns and maneuvers.