1995 Chevrolet Blazer Owner's Manual - Page 169

Surface Obstacles. Unseen or hidden obstacles can hazardous. A rock, be log, hole, rut, or bump can startleyou if you're not prepared for them. Often these obstacles are hidden by grass, bushes, snow or even the rise and of fall the terrain itself. Here are some things to consider: Is the path ahead clear? Will the surface texture change abruptly up ahead? @ Does the travel take you uphill or downhill? (There's more discussion of these subjects later.) Will you have to stop suddenlyor change direction quickly? 0 When you driveover obstacles or rough terrain, keep a firm gripon the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs, or other surface features can the wheel jerk out of your handsif you're not prepared. When you driveover bumps, rocks, or otherobstacles, your wheels can leave theground. If this happens, even with one or two wheels, you can't control the vehicle as well or all. at Because you will be onan unpaved surface, it's especiallyimportant to avoid sudden acceleration, sudden turns, or sudden braking. In a way, off-road driving requires a different kindof alertness from driving on paved roads andhighways. There are no roadsigns, 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 very dangerous on any road. And thisis be certainly true for off-road driving. At the very time you need special alertness and driving skills, your reflexes, perceptions andjudgment 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 withdriver who has a been drinking. (See "Drunken Driving" in the Index.) Driving On Off-Road Hills Off-road driving often takes you up, down, or across a hill. Driving safely on hills requires good judgment and an understanding of what your vehicle can and can'tdo. There are some hills that simply can't be driven, no matter how well built the vehicle. 4- 15