2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT Owner's Manual - Page 265

Driving Uphill Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. • Ease up on your speed as you approach the top of the hill. • Attach a flag to the vehicle to make you more visible to approaching traffic on trails or hills. • Use a low gear and get a firm grip on the steering wheel. • Sound the horn as you approach the top of the hill to let opposing traffic know you are there. • Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain your speed. Do not use more power than you need, because you do not want your wheels to start spinning or sliding. • Use your headlamps even during the day. They make you more visible to oncoming traffic. • Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If the path twists and turns, you might want to find another route. {CAUTION: Driving to the top (crest) of a hill at full speed can cause an accident. There could be a drop-off, embankment, cliff, or even another vehicle. You could be seriously injured or killed. As you near the top of a hill, slow down and stay alert. {CAUTION: Turning or driving across steep hills can be dangerous. You could lose traction, slide sideways, and possibly roll over. You could be seriously injured or killed. When driving up hills, always try to go straight up. 4-23