Off-Road Recovery; Passing; Loss Of Control - Buick 2009 Enclave Owner's Manual

The fact that such emergency
situations are always possible is a
good reason to practice defensive
driving at all times and wear
safety belts properly.

Off-Road Recovery

The vehicle's right wheels can drop
off the edge of a road onto the
shoulder while driving.
If the level of the shoulder is only
slightly below the pavement,
recovery should be fairly easy.
Ease off the accelerator and then, if
there is nothing in the way, steer so
that the vehicle straddles the edge of
the pavement. Turn the steering
wheel 3 to 5 inches, 8 to 13 cm,
(about one-eighth turn) until the right
front tire contacts the pavement
edge. Then turn the steering wheel to
go straight down the roadway.

Passing

Passing another vehicle on a
two-lane road can be dangerous.
To reduce the risk of danger
while passing:
•
Look down the road, to the sides,
and to crossroads for situations
that might affect a successful
pass. If in doubt, wait.
•
Watch for traffic signs, pavement
markings, and lines that could
indicate a turn or an intersection.
Never cross a solid or
double-solid line on your side
of the lane.
Driving Your Vehicle
•
Do not get too close to the vehicle
you want to pass. Doing so can
reduce your visibility.
•
Wait your turn to pass a slow
vehicle.
•
When you are being passed, ease
to the right.

Loss of Control

Let us review what driving experts
say about what happens when
the three control systems — brakes,
steering, and acceleration — do
not have enough friction where the
tires meet the road to do what
the driver has asked.
In any emergency, do not give up.
Keep trying to steer and constantly
seek an escape route or area of
less danger.
4-9