2002 Lexus RX 300 Owners Manual - Page 229

DRIVING TIPS d. Stay on established roads. When conditions are wet, driving techniques should be changed or travel delayed to prevent damage to roads. For owners in U.S. mainland, Hawaii and Puerto Rico: To obtain additional information pertaining to driving your vehicle off−road, consult the following organizations. D State and Local Parks and Recreation Departments D State Motor Vehicle Bureau D Recreational Vehicle Clubs D U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management D After driving through tall grass, mud, rock, sand, rivers, etc., check that there is no grass, bush, paper, rags, stone, sand, etc. adhering or trapped on the underbody. Clear off any such matter from the underbody. If the vehicle is used with these materials trapped or adhering to the underbody, a breakdown or fire could occur. D In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. Therefore, the driver and all passengers should fasten their seat belts whenever the vehicle is moving. D When driving off−road or in rugged terrain, do not drive at excessive speeds, jump, make sharp turns, strike objects, etc. This may cause loss of control or vehicle rollover causing death or serious injury. You are also risking expensive damage to your vehicle's suspension and chassis. CAUTION Always observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of serious personal injury or damage to your vehicle: D Drive carefully when off the road. Do not take unnecessary risks by driving in dangerous places. D Do not grip the steering wheel spokes when driving off−road. A bad bump could jerk the wheel and injure your hands. Keep both hands and especially your thumbs on the outside of the rim. D Always check your brakes for effectiveness immediately after driving in sand, mud, water or snow. NOTICE D If driving through water, such as when crossing shallow streams, first check the depth of the water and the bottom of the river bed for firmness. Drive slowly and avoid deep water. 2002 MY RX300_U (OM48416U) 209