1995 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 149

Surfclce 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 somethings 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 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 featurescan jerk the wheel out of your handsif you're not prepared. When you drive over bumps, rocks, or other obstacles,your wheels can you leave the ground. If this happens, even with one or two wheels, 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 areno 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 driveor ride with a driver who has 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't do. There are somehills that simply can't be driven, no matter how well built the vehicle. A CAUTION: Many hills are simply too steep any vehicle.If you drive up for you them, you will stall. If drive down them, you can't control your speed. If you drive across them, you will roll You over. could be seriously injured or killed. If you have any doubt about the steepness, don't drive the hill. 4-15