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Loss of Control
Let's review what driving experts say
about what happens when the three
control systems (brakes, steering and
acceleration) don't have enough friction
where the tires meet the road to do what
the driver has asked.
In any emergency, don't give up. Keep
trying to steer and constantly seek an
escape route or area of less danger.
Skidding
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the
vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most
skids by taking reasonable care suited
to existing conditions, and by not
"overdriving" those conditions. But
skids are always possible.
The three types of skids correspond to
your Pontiac's three control systems. In
the braking skid your wheels aren't
rolling. In the steering or cornering skid,
too much speed or steering in a curve
causes tires to slip and lose cornering
force. And in the acceleration skid too
much throttle causes the driving wheels
to spin.
A cornering skid is best handled by
Easing your foot
off
the accelerator pedal.
[f you have the traction control system,
remember: It helps avoid only the
acceleration skid. If you do not have
traction control, or if the system is
off,
then an acceleration skid is also best
handled by easing your foot off the
accelerator pedal.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your
bot
off
the accelerator pedal and quickly
steer the way you want the vehicle to
go.
If you start steering quickly enough, your
vehicle may straighten out. Always be
ready for a second skid if it occurs.
Of course, traction is reduced when water,
snow, ice, gravel, or other material is on
the road. For safety, you'll want to slow
down and adjust your driving to these
conditions. It is important to slow down
on slippery surfaces because stopping
distance will be longer and vehicle
control more limited.
While driving
on
a surface with reduced
traction,
try
your best to avoid sudden
steering, acceleration, or braking
(including engine braking by shifting to
a lower gear). Any sudden changes could
cause the tires to slide. You may not
realize the surface is 'slippery until your
vehicle is skidding. Learn to recqgnize
warning clues
-
such as enough water,
ice or packed snow on the road to make a
"mirrored surface"
-
and slow down
when you have any doubt.
Remember: Any anti-lock braking system
(ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid.
*:p?
'
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,
135
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