Why Hand-Over-Hand Steering is Better and Safer

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At Kelmscott Driving School, we emphasize teaching hand-over-hand steering because it offers greater control, ease of use, and smoother maneuvering for most drivers. While the push-pull method has been widely taught for decades, there are many misconceptions surrounding its necessity and perceived safety benefits. In this article, we’ll explain why we prefer hand-over-hand steering, address the myths about airbags and driving tests, and highlight why this method ultimately helps drivers focus on the road more efficiently.

Hand-over-hand steering allows drivers to complete turns more smoothly and naturally. By crossing one hand over the other during a turn, the driver can quickly rotate the steering wheel, making it especially useful for sharp or sudden turns. This method feels intuitive to most learners and requires less time spent thinking about the mechanics of their hands, which frees them to focus on the road.

In contrast, the push-pull method requires the driver to shuffle their hands without crossing them, which can lead to slower or awkward turns, particularly during tight maneuvers. With push-pull, the wheel is rotated in smaller increments, sometimes causing oversteering or understeering for new drivers.

Why Hand-Over-Hand is Safer:

• Faster response: Hand-over-hand allows for quicker turns, which can be crucial when reacting to unexpected road hazards.
• Better for sharp turns: Drivers can easily manage tighter turns without needing to awkwardly shuffle their hands around the wheel.
• Intuitive movement: The technique feels more natural, meaning drivers are less distracted by their hand movements and can better focus on what’s happening around them.

One of the most persistent myths about hand-over-hand steering is that it’s unsafe because it can lead to injuries in the event of airbag deployment. The argument suggests that crossing your hands over the airbag can result in broken wrists, arms, or hand injuries during a collision. However, there's no solid evidence supporting this claim.

While it’s true that airbags can cause injuries to hands and arms in certain situations, most airbag-related injuries are minor, such as cuts or bruises​(

University of Michigan News). Studies have shown that injuries from airbags are relatively rare and are typically linked to being seated too close to the steering wheel, regardless of the steering method. The more important factor is ensuring that the driver maintains control of the vehicle, which hand-over-hand steering allows them to do more effectively.

Another common myth is that drivers must use the push-pull method to pass their driving test in Western Australia. This is simply untrue. The Department of Transport do not specify which steering method a driver should use, as long as the driver remains in control of the vehicle throughout the test.

What examiners are primarily concerned with is:

• Safe vehicle control: The ability to make smooth, controlled turns without excessive over- or understeering.
• Proper hand positioning: Keeping your hands on the outside of the wheel, not locking your arms underneath the steering wheel, steering with two hands while traveling forward
• Focus on the road: The driver must be able to respond to road conditions safely, rather than focusing on complex hand maneuvers.
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As long as the driver demonstrates full control over the vehicle, both push-pull and hand-over-hand steering are acceptable. In fact, many instructors and examiners acknowledge that hand-over-hand is often easier for new drivers, leading to a smoother test experience.

At Kelmscott Driving School, we’ve shifted from teaching the push-pull method in 2015 to focusing on hand-over-hand for the past 9 years because it offers significant advantages for our students:

• Natural steering: Hand-over-hand steering feels more natural for most learners, making it easier for them to focus on driving rather than their hands.
• Better vehicle control: The method provides greater control during tight turns or emergency maneuvers, which is especially important for inexperienced drivers.
• Reduced cognitive load: By simplifying the hand movements required, learners can devote more mental energy to scanning the road and reacting to traffic conditions.

While both steering methods have their merits, hand-over-hand steering provides greater control and ease, particularly for new drivers. The myths surrounding push-pull and airbag safety are largely unsupported by evidence, and the idea that push-pull is required for driving tests is simply false.

At Kelmscott Driving School, we believe in teaching the techniques that help drivers feel more confident and in control of their vehicle. Hand-over-hand steering, when done with proper hand positioning, allows learners to focus on the road ahead while maintaining smoother, more intuitive control.