261 . . .
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Section
3
Driving Off-Road
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.
• you have less time to react.
• you have more vehicle bounce
when you drive over obstacles.
• you’ll need more distance for
braking, especially since you’re
on an unpaved surface.
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 driv-
ing on or off the road, you and
your passengers should wear
safety belts.
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.
When you drive over bumps,
rocks, or other obstacles, your
wheels can leave the ground. If
this happens, even with one or
two wheels, you can’t control the
vehicle as well or at all.
Because you will be on an unpaved
surface, it’s especially important to
avoid sudden acceleration, sudden
turns or sudden braking.
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