When gripping the steering wheel, you should place hands at 3 and 9 or 4 and 8 o'clock to allow room for air bags to deploy.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on driver height
• D. Only if not using seat belt

Answer: (A)

Safe airbag deployment relies on hand placement. Keeping your hands on the sides of the steering wheel—roughly aligned with the wheel’s center—provides room for the air bag to expand without striking your wrists, forearms, or face. Front airbags inflate rapidly toward your upper body, so if your hands are positioned high near the top, the bag can push your arms into your face or wrists and cause injuries. The side-position also gives you better leverage to steer after the bag deploys. This guidance holds regardless of driver height, and remember to wear your seat belt—airbags are designed to work with the belt, not replace it.