Scanning The Terrain - GMC 2001 Denali Owner's 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:
D
you approach things faster and you have less time
to scan the terrain for obstacles.
D
you have less time to react.
D
you have more vehicle bounce when you drive
over obstacles.
D
you'll need more distance for braking, especially
since you're on an unpaved surface.
CAUTION:
When you're driving off
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.
-
road, bouncing and

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 longer
braking distances.
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:
D
Is the path ahead clear?
D
Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead?
D
Does the travel take you uphill or downhill?
(There's more discussion of these subjects later.)
D
Will you have to stop suddenly or change
direction quickly?
4-17