Which hand position is recommended when an airbag may deploy?

• A. 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock
• B. 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock
• C. 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock
• D. 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock

Answer: (A)

Airbags deploy with a strong outward force, so keeping your hands low on the wheel reduces the risk of injury when the bag inflates. Place your hands at the lower sides of the wheel, roughly where the clock would show 8 and 4. This position keeps your arms out of the airbag’s direct path and gives you room to steer as the bag expands, while protecting your wrists and face from contact with the bag. Higher hand positions bring your arms closer to the center and face, increasing the chance of injury during deployment.