Driver's License Test Prep
Pennsylvania Practice Defensive Driving

Which hand positions on the steering wheel does the manual recommend?

  1. A.
    One hand resting at 12 o'clock is preferred
  2. B.
    12 and 6 o'clock, or 11 and 5 o'clock
  3. C.
    10 and 4 o'clock, or 7 and 5 o'clock
  4. D.
    9 and 3 o'clock, or 8 and 4 o'clock Correct
The Why

The answer is "9 and 3 o'clock, or 8 and 4 o'clock"

The manual recommends holding the wheel at 9 and 3 o'clock or 8 and 4 o'clock, whichever is more comfortable. Both keep your arms clear of the airbag deployment path and reduce the chance of overcorrecting during an emergency steering move. Answer C is where drivers land when they recall the older 10-and-2 recommendation and adjust it slightly rather than using the current guidance.

Why the others miss

The traps in the wrong answers

A. One hand resting at 12 o'clock is preferred

The manual expects both hands on the wheel. Reflects a casual driving habit the manual warns against for both control and airbag safety.

B. 12 and 6 o'clock, or 11 and 5 o'clock

The manual does not list a top-and-bottom grip. Assumes the top-and-bottom hold taught in older training remains current guidance.

C. 10 and 4 o'clock, or 7 and 5 o'clock

These positions are not what the manual lists. Recalls the older 10-and-2 recommendation and modifies it slightly rather than using the current guidance.

The Rule

This question tests your knowledge of Defensive Driving in Pennsylvania. Source: Pennsylvania Driver Manual, "Steering Your Way Out of an Emergency," p.60..

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