1997 Cadillac Eldorado Owner's Manual - Page 196

What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. 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: If you have the Eldorado ETC, you may see the STABILITY SYS ENGAGED message on the Driver Information Center. See "Stability Engaged Message" in the Index. 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 togo slower. If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. 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 willkeep 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 get ina curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked and your speed. While you're in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Thenyou suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. Refer to "Traction Control System"in the Index. Try to adjust your speed so you can "drive" through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are outof the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.