Steering and turning

By the end of this topic you can

• You can steer using the hand-to-hand (push-pull) method.
• You can use hand-over-hand steering for sharp, low-speed turns.
• You can prepare for a turn with mirrors, signal and speed.
• You can make right and left turns into the correct lane.
• You can let the wheel return safely after a turn.

What you need to know and understand

• Hand-to-hand (push-pull) steering starts at 9 and 3 or 8 and 4, and your hands never cross the center of the wheel.
• Hand-over-hand steering is for low speeds, parking and skid recovery.
• California requires you to signal at least 100 feet before a turn.
• For a right turn, keep close to the right curb or edge; for a left, approach from the left part of your lane or the left-turn lane.
• Turn into the nearest lane going your direction unless signs show otherwise.
• When turning left, yield to oncoming traffic close enough to be a danger and to pedestrians.

Two steering methods compared

• Hand-to-hand (push-pull): one hand pushes the wheel up while the other slides up to meet it and pulls down. Hands stay on their own side, so arms stay clear of the air bag. Good for most everyday turns.
• Hand-over-hand: one hand reaches across the top of the wheel to pull it round while the other lets go and grips again. Turns the wheel further, faster, so it suits tight parking and slow sharp corners.
• Shuffle is another name some instructors use for push-pull steering.

A turn, step by step

1. Check mirrors and position the car in the correct lane early.
2. Signal at least 100 feet before the turn (California rule; check your state).
3. Slow down before you turn, not during it.
4. Look through the turn for pedestrians, cyclists and oncoming traffic.
5. Steer smoothly, keeping your speed low and steady.
6. As the car straightens, let the wheel slide back through your hands under control and accelerate gently.

Lanes on right and left turns

On a right turn, stay close to the curb and finish in the right lane. On a left turn from a two-way street, start just right of the center line or in the left-turn lane, and finish in the lane nearest the center of the new road. Do not swing wide or cut across lanes mid-turn. Watch for bike lanes, and check your state manual for rules about entering them before a turn.

Common mistakes

• Crossing arms in front of the air bag during everyday turns.
• Braking in the middle of the turn instead of before it.
• Swinging wide on a right turn.
• Letting the wheel spin back freely after a turn.

Test yourself: Steering and turning

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Steering Wheel Hand Position and Seat Setup for US Learners