1996 GMC Jimmy Owner's Manual - Page 171

When you arlve over obstacles or rough terrain, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs or other surface features can jerk wheel out of your hands if the you're not prepared. When you drive over bumps, rocks, orother 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 surface, it's especially important to avoid sudden acceleration, sudden turns or sudden braking. 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 some hills that simply can't be driven, no matter how well built the vehicle. 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 fidtal-- accident if you drink and drive orride with a driver who has been drinking. See "Drunken Driving'' in the Index. Many hills are simply steep for any vehicle. too If you drive up them, youwill stall. If you drive down them, you can't control your speed. you If drive across them, youwill roll over.You could be seriously injuredor killed. If you have any doubt about the steepness,don't drive the hill. 4-18