How far should a driver be from the steering wheel?

Maintaining a distance of at least 10 inches from the steering wheel is crucial for safety, particularly when considering the deployment of airbags in modern vehicles. Airbags are designed to inflate rapidly during a collision, and if a driver is seated too close to the steering wheel, they risk serious injury from the airbag itself.

This recommended distance helps ensure that the driver has a safe positioning to operate the vehicle while also being far enough away to avoid injury during an explosive airbag deployment. Additionally, being 10 inches or more from the wheel allows for better control and comfort when driving, as it enables the driver to use their arms and hands more effectively without being cramped or constrained by the steering wheel's range of motion.

While driver size can influence how one fits in a vehicle, the critical factor of safety regarding airbag deployment underscores the importance of adhering to the specific distance recommendation. Thus, this choice supports both safe driving practices and injury prevention.