Washington State Department of Licensing Knowledge Test

The ideal hand position for holding the steering wheel while driving is to place the left hand between 9 and 10 o’clock and the right hand between 3 and 4 o’clock. This hand placement aligns with the recommended "9 and 3" position that provides the best control and stability while driving. It allows for strong grip and quick reaction times in various driving situations, such as making turns or handling sudden changes in traffic.

This position also minimizes the risk of injury from the airbag deployment during a collision, as the hands are positioned away from the path of the airbag. Additionally, this hand placement ensures that the arms are slightly bent rather than fully extended, which is conducive to better steering control and comfort over long periods.

In contrast, other options present hand positions that do not offer the same level of control or safety. For instance, having hands at 10 and 2 o'clock might feel familiar from older driving practices, but contemporary guidance advises the 9 and 3 position due to better airbag safety and enhanced maneuverability. Similarly, the positions at 8 and 4 o'clock or 12 and 6 o'clock can lead to less effective control and slower response times, compromising safety while driving.