Black plate (7,1)Cadillac Escalade/Escalade ESV Owner Manual - 2012Driving and Operating 9-7WARNING (Continued). Keep cargo in the cargo areaas far forward and as lowas possible. The heaviestthings should be on the floor,forward of the rear axle.. Heavy loads on the roof raisethe vehicle's center of gravity,making it more likely to rollover. You can be seriously orfatally injured if the vehiclerolls over. Put heavy loadsinside the cargo area, not onthe roof.For more information about loadingthe vehicle, see Vehicle Load Limitson page 9‑15.Environmental Concerns. Always use established trails,roads, and areas that have beenset aside for public off-roadrecreational driving and obey allposted regulations.. Do not damage shrubs, flowers,trees, or grasses or disturbwildlife.. Do not park over things thatburn. See Parking over ThingsThat Burn on page 9‑27.Driving on HillsDriving safely on hills requires goodjudgment and an understanding ofwhat the vehicle can and cannot do.{ WARNINGMany hills are simply too steepfor any vehicle. Driving up hillscan cause the vehicle to stall.Driving down hills can cause lossof control. Driving across hills cancause a rollover. You could beinjured or killed. Do not drive onsteep hills.Before driving on a hill, assessthe steepness, traction, andobstructions. If the terrain aheadcannot be seen, get out of thevehicle and walk the hill beforedriving further.When driving on hills:. Use a low gear and keep a firmgrip on the steering wheel.. Maintain a slow speed.. When possible, drive straight upor down the hill.. Slow down when approachingthe top of the hill.
