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.
Surface
Conditions.
Off-roading can take you over
hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow or
ice. Each
of
these surfaces affects the steering, acceleration
and braking of your vehicle
in
difierent 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.
Sufc~ce
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:
Is
the path ahead clear?
0
Will the surface texture change abnlptly
up
ahead?
Does
the
travel take you uphill or downhill? (There‘s
more discussion of these subjects later.)
Will you have to stop suddenly or change
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 surfxe, 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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