1995 Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual - Page 152

Braking in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia will keep the 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 getin a curve depends the on condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed.While you're i a curve, speedis the one factor you can control. n Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Then you -suddenly accelerate. Both control systems steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Unless you have traction control and the system is on, addingthe sudden accelerationcan demand too much of those places. You can lose control. What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you wantit to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you'll want to go slower. Variable Effort Steering If your vehicle is equipped with this option, you have a variable effort steering system that eases steering effort at speeds less than 20 mph (32 km/h). This is particularly useful when parking your vehicle. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the "driver lost control" accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here's why: 4-9