GMC 2003 Sierra - Manual (Page 307)

Contmiring your vehicl9 is the key td succe&shjl off-road
driving. One of the best ways to control your vehicle
is to control your speed. Here are some things to keep
In mind. At higher speeds:
* you approach things fasler and you have (ess lime
to scan tho terrain for obstacles.
% you have less Mme to read.
% you have more vehicle bounce when you drive over
obstacles,
♦ you’ll need more distance for braking,, especially
since you’re on an unpaved surface.
Д CAUTION:
When yeu^re driving off-road, bouncing and
guick changes in direction can easily throw
you out of position. This could cause you to
lose control and crash. SOi
whether you're
driving on or olf the road, you and your
passortgers should wear safety belts-
Scannlng the Terrain
Off-road driving can take you over many dilferent kinds
of terrain. You need to be familiar wilh the terrain
and its many different features, Here are some things lo
consider.
Surface Conditions: Off-roading can take you over
hard-packed dirt, graveJ^ rocks, grass, sgnd, mud, snow
or ice. Each of tiiese surfaces affscts the steering,
acceteration and braking pf your vehicle in different
ways. Depending upon the kind of surface you are on,
you may experience slipping, sliding, wheel spinning,
delayed accotsrafion, poor traction and longer braking
distances,
Surface Obstacles: Unseen or hidden obstactes can
be hazardous. A rock, log, hols, rut or bump can atarlie
you if you're not prepared for them. Often these
obsiacles are hidden by grass, bushes, snow or even
the П50 and fail of Ihe tenain itself. Here are some
things to consider:
* Is tha path ahead clear?
* Will the surface lexture change abnjplly up ahead?
* D oes tha travel take you uphill dr downhill?
{Tiiere's more discussion of these subjecls tater.)
* Will you have to slop suddenly or change direction
quickly?
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