Scanning the Terrain
Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds
of terrain. You need to be familiar with
the
terrain and its
many different features. Here are some things to consider.
Surfiuce
Conditions.
Off-roading can take you over
hard-packed
dirt,
gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow or
ice. Each of these surfaces affectsthe steering, acceleration
and braking of your vehicle in different ways. Depending
upon the kind of surface
you
are on, you may experience
slipping, sliding, wheel spinning, delayed acceleration,
poor traction and longer braking distances.
&$ace
Obstacles.
Unseen or hidden obstacles can be
hazardous.
-A
rock, log, hole, rut or bump can startle you if
you’re not prepared for them. Often these obstacles are
hidden by grass, bushes, snow or even the rise and fall of
the terrain itself. Here are some things to consider:
0
Is
the path ahead clear?
Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead?
0
Does the travel take
you
uphill or downhill?
0
Will you have
to
stop suddenly or change
(There’s more discussion
of
these subjects later.)
direction quickly?
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.
In a way, off-road driving requires a different kind
of
alertness from driving
on
paved roads
and
highways.
There are no road signs, posted speed limits or signal
lights. You have
to
use
your own good judgment about
what is safe and what isn’t.
Drinking and driving can be very dangerous
on
any
road. And this is certainly true for off-road driving. At
the very time
you
need special alertness and driving
skills, your reflexes, perceptions and judgment can be
affected by even a small amount of alcohol.
You
could
have a serious
--
or even fatal
--
accident if
you
drink
and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking.
See “Drunken Driving” in the Index.
4-17
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