2008 Saturn Astra Owner's Manual - Page 175

Driving and Operating Turn the steering wheel 3 to 5 inches (about one-eighth turn) until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn the steering wheel to go straight down the roadway. 8-23 • Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass. Doing so can reduce your visibility. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle's three control systems. In the braking skid, the wheels are not rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin. A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off of the accelerator pedal. • Wait your turn to pass a slow vehicle. • When you are being passed, ease to the right. Passing Passing another vehicle on a two-lane road can be dangerous. To reduce the risk of danger while passing: Loss of Control Let us review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems - brakes, steering, and acceleration - do not have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. • Look down the road, to the sides, and to crossroads for situations that might affect a successful pass. If in doubt, wait. • Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and lines that could indicate a turn or an intersection. Never cross a solid or double-solid line on your side of the lane.