Off-Road Driving Considerations
When you leave paved roads, you
leave a generally predictable and
orderly world behind. You won't
find lane markers or traffic
signals. No one will be there to
warn you of trouble ahead. It's up
to you to assess situations and
drive within limits. The terrain
has limits (some hills are too
steep, for example). You have
limits (in skills and comfort
level). And off-road vehicles also
have limits (traction, stability, and
power, for instance).
Following are some important tips
on how to deal with some of the
challenges of driving off-road.
Using Your Senses
You need to use your senses a
little differently off-road. Keep
your eyes moving, constantly
watching for obstacles and
evaluating the terrain. Check your
gauges frequently. Listen for
unusual sounds from your engine
and tires. Pay attention to the
smell of overheated brakes. And
when you feel excessive
vibrations or bouncing, the terrain
is telling you to slow down.
Off-Road Driving Information
