Hazardous Driving - Mazda MX-5 Owner's Manual

MX-5_8U35-EA-05F_Edition1 Page122
Monday, April 18 2005 4:17 PM
Before Driving Your Mazda
Driving Tips

Hazardous Driving

WARNING
Downshifting on Slippery Surfaces:
Downshifting into lower gear while
driving on slippery surfaces is
dangerous. The sudden change in tire
speed could cause the tires to skid.
This could lead to loss of vehicle
control and an accident. If it is
necessary to downshift on slippery
surfaces, be very careful.
ABS:
The ABS cannot compensate for
unsafe and reckless driving, excessive
speed, tailgating (following another
vehicle too closely), driving on ice and
snow, and hydroplaning (reduced tire
friction and road contact because of
water on the road surface). You can
still have an accident. So don't rely on
ABS as a substitute for safe driving.
When driving on ice or in water, snow,
mud, sand, or similar hazard:
Be cautious and allow extra distance
l
for braking.
Avoid sudden braking and quick
l
steering.
If your vehicle is not equipped with
l
ABS, brake with the pedal by using a
light up-down motion. Don't hold the
pedal down constantly.
If your vehicle is equipped with ABS,
don't pump the brakes. Continue to
press down on the brake pedal.
If you get stuck, select a lower gear and
l
accelerate slowly. Don't spin the rear
wheels.
4-8
Form No.8U35-EA-05F
Black plate (122,1)
For more traction in starting on
l
slippery surfaces such as ice or packed
snow, use sand, rock salt, chains,
carpeting, or other nonslip material
under the rear wheels.
NOTE
Use snow chains only on the rear
wheels.