4-13Steering TipsDriving on CurvesIt’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed.A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentionedon the news happen on curves. Here’s why:Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject tothe same laws of physics when driving on curves. Thetraction of the tires against the road surface makes itpossible for the vehicle to change its path when you turnthe front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keepthe vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve evertried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this.The traction you can get in a curve depends on thecondition of your tires and the road surface, the angle atwhich the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’rein a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then yousuddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering andacceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meetthe road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand toomuch of those places. You can lose control. Refer to“Traction Control System” in the Index.What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up onthe accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you wantit to go, and slow down.If you have Stabilitrak, you may see the STABILITYSYSTEM ACTIVE message on the message center.See “STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE Message” inthe Index.Speed limit signs near curves warn that you shouldadjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds arebased on good weather and road conditions. Underless favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower.If you need to reduce your speed as you approach acurve, do it before you enter the curve, while yourfront wheels are straight ahead.Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” throughthe curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Waitto accelerate until you are out of the curve, and thenaccelerate gently into the straightaway.
