Driving (© Marin Tomas/Getty Images)

Driving at '10 and 2' can lead to finger amputations

3/23/2012

It's time to rethink putting your hands in the classic 10 and 2 steering wheel position the next time you drive, unless you want to risk having your airbag fling them into your face at 200 mph. Steering wheel designs have changed so much as cars have become safer that top driver-safety organizations say drivers need to reassess old habits. Organizations such as AAA say drivers should use a 9 and 3 positioning to keep their hands clear of the airbag should it go off. Beyond the obvious problem of having your hands thrust into your face, the NHTSA notes injuries like finger amputations, broken bones and "degloving" have occurred. And yes, that last one is exactly what it sounds like ... but with your skin.

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