How does where you sit behind the wheel affect how you drive?
“How you sit behind the wheel speaks volumes about your approach to driving. Your seating position isn't just physical comfort; it reflects your mindset on the road,” states Dominic Wyatt, a Motoring Expert from the International Drivers Association.
The way we sit in the driver's seat can say more about our driving behavior than most of us might imagine. According to a study by PhysioMed, correct sitting posture is essential when driving to ensure safety and comfort.
Can the body language of drivers reveal the critical aspects of their personality and driving habits? Let’s dig deeper into this question.
Decoding Driving Positions
According to a survey from Quora and research from The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, your driving position can impact your driving style. Here’s what the team at the International Drivers Association collected:
The Recliner
Drivers who prefer to carry their seats far back fall into this category. These drivers are seen as easy-going and laid back. According to posts from both Quora and Reddit, some drivers who recline on their seats are much more comfortable in this position, given that they have longer legs. However, the road safety component may be at risk as this position may affect visibility and control.
The Newbie cling
The seat may be very close to the steering wheel for new and insecure drivers. This position (known as the Newbie cling), according to Dominic Wyatt, a motorist expert from the International Drivers Association, often leads to poor vehicle control because of restricted arm movements. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises that driving at a distance of 10 or more inches from the steering wheel is safer.
The Leaner
According to statements from different drivers on a Reddit post, “leaners” are either left-handed or just free-spirited and nonconformist. Yet, this can be a dangerous position, diminishing the functional effectiveness of the safety belt and impacting the correct vision of the mirrors.
The Rider
This position tends to sit straight, handles close to the steering wheel, and the foot is constantly on the accelerator. The 'rider' position can reflect an aggressive, competitive personality. A study on Quora found that passengers dislike it when drivers always press the gas pedal.
The Multi-Tasker
The Multi-Tasker is identifiable by one hand on the wheel and uses the other hand for different tasks like changing the radio station or texting. According to a post from My Car Forum, this indicates a multi-tasking personality and is the most dangerous of the positions associated with distracted driving.
The Professional
Sat upright, hands on the steering wheel, mirrors adjusted correctly - this is the professional. According to BoxThisLap’s report, this position suggests an attentive and responsible driver, potentially leading to less risk of accidents.
Safety Enhancing Tips While Driving
- Never underestimate the value of the classic “10 and 2” position for holding the steering wheel. It provides a good balance between vehicle control and comfort.
- The driver seat should be positioned to create no less than a 25-30 cm gap between the chest and the airbag in the steering wheel.
- It is essential to regularly take breaks, especially during a long drive, to prevent fatigue and maintain concentration.
- It's advisable to adjust all mirrors constantly to avoid blind spots. The mirrors should cover as much of the area behind the vehicle as possible.
- Avoid using your mobile phone while driving; even hands-free sets are distracting.
Expert's Analysis
Wyatt, underscores the importance of adopting the correct seating position: “An ideal seating position can be a critical factor in the driver's response during unforeseen circumstances.” He strongly recommends a periodic examination of one's seating posture. “Much like regular vehicle maintenance, a check-up on our driving position can greatly improve our safety and comfort on the road,” he says.
“Remember that our seating position on the road could tell the world more about us than we imagined. It is time we paid more attention to this silent communicator; after all - safety and comfort on the road often begin with our body language behind the wheel.”