Why "4 and 8" is better than "10 and 2", and other news - McClain Insurance Services (2024)
Many thanks to all 31 attendeesfor joining us to our55-Alive Defensive Driving Class. The Washington Oakes provided a beautiful setting and a delicious meal, and instructor Joey Amposta tought us manysafety tips and interestingtidbits that are important to know for all of us:
– Do you remember the common instructionto place your hands in the “10 o’clock and 2 o’clock” position on the steering wheel? Well, that is no longer recommended. “4 and 8” is the new “10 and 2”. Why? Because the “4 o’clock and 8 o’clock” hand position keeps your wrists and arms out of harm’s way if the airbag deploys.
– Tires have an expiration date, and regardless ofthe tread, they should be replaced if they are 6 years or older. Tires are now may out of neoprene, not rubber, and they are subject to sudden failure if they are too old.
The key to safety is that every tire has a date on it…..look on the side wall for a series of numbers beginning with ‘DOT’. The last three digits represent the week and the year the tire was manufactured. So, a number like DOT 9F9 270 would mean that the tire was manufactured in the 27th week of 2000.
Also, never buy a tire that’s more than a year old. Often, retailers have old tires in stock, somake the seller show you the age of the tire. Also, check the age of the tire even when buying a new car, as the tire could be old.
– Speaking of tires – do you know what the correct tire pressure is on your car? (Hint: There is a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door.) Keep in mind: ALWAYS check the tire pressure when the tire is COLD. Don’t drive long distances without checking your tire pressure and refilling air if necessary.
“4 and 8” is the new “10 and 2”. Why? Because the “4 o'clock and 8 o'clock” hand position keeps your wrists and arms out of harm's way if the airbag deploys. – Tires have an expiration date, and regardless of the tread, they should be replaced if they are 6 years or older.
If possible and if you feel in control, sliding your hands down to 8 and 4 is a pro defensive driving move: For starters, 8 and 4 further reduces your risk of injury if the airbag should deploy because your hands will just be pushed into your lap instead of flying upwards or towards your face.
The three main types of car insurance are often considered: liability, comprehensive, and collision. This is because liability is required by law in most states, and comprehensive and collision coverage are required for most car loans and leases.
ABOUT 4-WHEEL STEER. Available 4-Wheel Steer is designed to offer greater vehicle maneuverability while parking at low speeds and on tight off-road trails. The system increases low-speed agility and allows the driver to achieve a tighter turn circle.
Holding the wheel at the 8 and 4 positions offers several advantages. First, it keeps your arms in a relaxed and comfortable position, reducing fatigue on long drives. Second, it provides better control and maneuverability, as your hands are positioned to make precise turns and adjustments.
Why has the hand placement on a wheel changed to 8 and 4? Airbags and smaller steering wheels. With the old 10 and 2 placement, the release of the airbag in case of a collision will send your hands flying into your face.
Yes, it's true that the recommended position for a driver's hands on the steering wheel is at 8 and 4. This is due to the invention of safety enhancements like airbags. It helps maximize control and reduce potential injury from airbag deployment.
Both hands should be placed outside of the steering wheel on opposite sides. Your grip should be firm, yet gentle. Use your fingers instead of the palms of your hands and keep your thumbs up along the face of the steering wheel. Never turn the wheel while gripping it from the inside of its rim.
Introduction: My name is Nicola Considine CPA, I am a determined, witty, powerful, brainy, open, smiling, proud person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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