1993 Chevrolet Cavalier Owner's Manual - Page 140

Your Driving and the Road Steering Tips-Driving on Curves It's important to takecurves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the "driver lost control" accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here's why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to thesame laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible forthe vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia will keepthe vehicle going in the same direction. If you've ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you'll understand this. The traction you can get in acurve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and youT speed...I While you're in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Those two control systems-steering and acceleration-can overwhelm those places where the tires meet the road and make you lose control. What shouldyou do if this ever happens? Let up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn lhat you should adjust yourspeed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you'll want to go slower. If you need to reduce your speed you as approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheelsare straight ahead. Try to adjust your speedso you can "drive" through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate untilyou are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. When you drive into a curve at night, it's harder to see the road aheadof you because it bends away from the straight beams of your lights. This is one good reason to drive slower. I38