Scanning The Terrain - Geo TRACKER 1996 Manual

Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful
off-road driving. One
of
the best ways to control your
vehicle is to control your speed. Here are some things to
keep in mind. At higher speeds:
you approach things faster and you have less time to
scan the terrain for obstacles.
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you have less time to react.
you have more vehicle bounce when you drive
you'll need more distance for braking, especially
over obstacles.
since you're on an unpaved surface.
~~ ~
When you're driving off-road, bouncing and
quick changes in direction can easily throw you
out of position. This could cause you to lose
control and crash. So, whether you're driving on
or off the road, you and your passengers should
wear safety belts.
Scanning the Terrain
Off-road driving can take you over many different
kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with the
terrain and its many different features. Here are some
things to consider.
Surface Conditions. Off-roading can take you over
hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow
or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering,
acceleration and braking of your vehicle in different
ways. Depending upon the kind of surface you are
on, you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel
spinning, delayed acceleration, poor traction and
Surface Obstacles. Unseen or hidden obstacles can
be hazardous. A rock, log, hole, rut or bump can
startle you if you're not prepared for them. Often
these obstacles are hidden by grass, bushes, snow or
even the rise and fall of the terrain itself. Here are some
things to consider:
I
longer braking distances.
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Is the path ahead clear?
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Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead?
I
Does
the travel take you uphill
or
downhill? (There's
more discussion of
these
subjects later.)
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