1998 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 173

Scanning the Terrain Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with the terrain and its many different features. Here are some things to consider. Surfnce Conditions. Off-roading can take you over hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow or ice. Each of these surfaces affectsthe steering, acceleration and braking of your vehicle in different ways. Depending upon the kind of surface you are on, you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning, delayed acceleration, poor traction and longer braking distances. When you drive over obstacles orrough terrain, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Ruts, troughs or other surface featurescan jerk the wheel out of your hands if you're not prepared. When you drive overbumps, rocks, or other 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. In a way, off-road driving requires a different Eind'of alertness from driving on paved roads and highways. There are no 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 drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. See "Drunken Driving" in the Index. Stuface Obstacles. Unseen or hidden obstacles can be hazardous. A rock, 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 Pdl of the temin itself. Here are some things to consider: Is the path ahead dear? 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? 4-17