1996 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 159

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, steeringcan help you more ttan even the very best braking. The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires andthe road surface, the angle at While you're which the curveis banked, and your speed. in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. 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. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed. Suppose you're sleering through a sharp curve, Then you suddenly accelerate. Bothcontrol systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Unlessyou have the Enhanced Traction System and the system is on, adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. What should you do if this everhappens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it 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. If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, doit before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can "drive" through the curve. Maintain a reasonable,steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. A lot of the "driver lost control" accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here's why: 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 itspath 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. 4-10