Final answer:
For safe and effective steering control, drivers are advised to place their hands at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions on the steering wheel.
Step-by-step explanation:
When preparing to drive, the recommended position for the hands on the steering wheel is at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. This advice, often given by driving instructors and safety experts, suggests that drivers should imagine the steering wheel as the face of a clock. Placing the left hand at the 9 o'clock position and the right hand at the 3 o'clock position allows for maximum control and stability. It also facilitates easier access to the vehicle's controls and minimizes the risk of injury if the airbags were to deploy.