Whereas driving, it’s of utmost significance to carry the steering wheel accurately, which not solely helps you maneuver easily but in addition safeguards you in case of accidents. This is the reason consultants advise that, somewhat than 10 and a couple of, your hand place ought to be both 9 and three or 8 and 4. Dr Swapnil Zambare, marketing consultant arthroscopy, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, stated that whereas the usual recommendation was 10 and a couple of, it isn’t so anymore.
“With airbags in trendy automobiles, 10 and a couple of is definitely dangerous. As an arthroscopy specialist, I typically see higher limb accidents after accidents, together with fractures, dislocations, and ligament tears. Many of those happen when airbags deploy and forcefully knock the arms again into the driver’s face or shoulders,” defined Dr Zambare.
So, what’s the safer strategy to maintain the wheel?
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The really helpful grip immediately is at 9 and three or 8 and 4. “These positions hold your arms decrease and out of the airbag’s direct line of pressure. If the airbag opens, your fingers are pushed sideways somewhat than upwards. This reduces the prospect of fractures, shoulder accidents, or facial trauma,” stated Dr Zambare.
Does such a small change in hand place actually scale back accidents?
Sure, it makes a “large distinction”, stated Dr Zambare. “At 10 and a couple of, your arms are within the ‘blast zone.’ At 9 and three, they’re safer. From an orthopedic standpoint, I’ve handled sufferers with wrist and elbow fractures after crashes the place airbags deployed whereas their fingers have been too excessive. A decrease grip may have prevented a lot of the injury,” he advised indianexpress.com.
Right here’s why the hand grip issues (Picture: Freepik)
Ought to drivers fully neglect 10 and a couple of now?
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“Sure. That guideline was made for automobiles with out airbags. Immediately, it’s outdated and harmful. Highway security consultants worldwide have moved away from it, however many drivers in India nonetheless observe the outdated rule,” stated Dr Zambare.
What’s the recommendation to on a regular basis drivers?
-Use 9 and three or 8 and 4 for higher management and safety.
-Sit upright, no less than 10 inches away from the steering wheel.
-Keep away from crossing arms when turning or resting fingers on the airbag cowl.
Small changes can forestall large accidents. “Right hand placement received’t cease an accident, however it may well scale back the severity of accidents to your shoulders, wrists, and arms, one thing I see far too typically within the hospital,” stated Dr Zambare.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to.
