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Steering Tips
It is important to take curves at a
reasonable speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control”
accidents mentioned on the news
happen on curves. Here is why:
Experienced driver or beginner,
each of us is subject to the same
laws of physics when driving on
curves. The traction of the tires
against the road surface makes it
possible for the vehicle to change its
path when you turn the front wheels.
If there is no traction, inertia will
keep the vehicle going in the same
direction. If you have ever tried to
steer a vehicle on wet ice, you will
understand this.
Traction in a curve depends on
the condition of the tires and
the road surface, the angle at which
the curve is banked, and your
speed. While in a curve, speed is
the one factor you can control.
Suppose you are steering
through a sharp curve. Then
you suddenly accelerate. Both
control systems — steering
and acceleration — have to do
their work where the tires meet
the road. Adding the sudden
acceleration can demand too much
of those places. You can lose
control. See StabiliTrak
®
System
on page 8-19.
What should you do if this ever
happens? Ease up on the brake
or accelerator pedal, steer the
vehicle the way you want it to go,
and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn
that you should adjust your speed.
Of course, the posted speeds are
based on good weather and road
conditions. Under less favorable
conditions you will want to go slower.
If you need to reduce speed when
approaching a curve, do it before
you enter the curve, while the front
wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust the speed so you can
drive through the curve. Maintain
a reasonable, steady speed. Wait
to accelerate until you are out of the
curve, and then accelerate gently
into the straightaway.
Adding non-dealer/non-retailer
accessories can affect your vehicle’s
performance. See Accessories
and Modifications on page 9-3.
Driving and Operating 8-21