Scanning The Terrain - GMC SIERRA 1995 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.
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you have more vehicle bounce when you drive over obstacles.
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you'll need more distance for braking, especially since you're on an
unpaved surface.
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CAUTION:
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.
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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.
Surjace
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:
Is the path ahead clear?
Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead'?
Does
the travel take you uphill or downhill? (There's more discussion
of these subjects later.)
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Will you have
to
stop suddenly or change direction quickly?
When you drive over obstacles or rough terrain, keep a firm grip on the
steering wheel. Ruts, troughs, or other surface features can jerk the wheel
out of your hands if you're not prepared.
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