Steering TipsIt is important to take curves at a reasonable speed.A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned onthe news happen on curves. Here is 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 is no traction, inertia will keepthe vehicle going in the same direction. If you haveever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you willunderstand this.Traction in a curve depends on the condition of the tiresand the road surface, the angle at which the curve isbanked, and your speed. While in a curve, speed is theone factor you can control.Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve.Then you suddenly accelerate. Both controlsystems — steering and acceleration — have to dotheir work where the tires meet the road. Adding thesudden acceleration can demand too much of thoseplaces. You can lose control. See Traction ControlSystem (TCS) on page 4-6.What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up onthe accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way youwant it to go, and slow down.Speed limit signs near curves warn that you shouldadjust your speed. Of course, the posted speedsare based on good weather and road conditions. Underless favorable conditions you will want to go slower.If you need to reduce speed when approaching a curve,do it before you enter the curve, while the frontwheels are straight ahead.Try to adjust the speed so you can drive through thecurve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Waitto accelerate until you are out of the curve, and thenaccelerate gently into the straightaway.Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affectyour vehicle’s performance. See Accessories andModifications on page 5-4.4-10
