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Basic Operation & Driving Guidelines
85
Driving Guidelines
Surface Considerations
The kind of surface you drive on affect how your vehicle handles. For
example, on loose or soft surfaces you’ll need more time and
distance to accelerate, turn, or brake to a stop.
Avoid any sudden sharp turns, particularly on pavement and other
hard surfaces. Always slow down after moving from one type of
surface to another until you get accustomed to how your vehicle
handles.
Reading the Terrain
Because visual information comes in unpredictable ways off-road,
you need to stay alert, constantly survey the terrain, and go slow
enough to analyze situations and make good decisions.
As your eyes search the terrain ahead, watch for changes in surface
conditions. One minute you can be on firm soil and the next in soft
sand or deep mud. A path can quickly change from level to bumpy,
slope at a dangerous angle, or disappear in a drop-off. Always keep
your eyes open for holes, washouts, or obstacles that could upset or
damage the vehicle.
Of course if you cannot see clearly, due to tall grass for example, stop
safely, get out of the vehicle, and survey the area for a safe route.
Controlling Speed
Whether you travel off-road or on pavement, the general rule is to
keep your speed low. Of course, you’ll need enough speed to keep
moving forward, but too much speed leads to problems.
When driving off-road at higher speeds, you have less time to read
the terrain and make good decisions. The drive can also be more
bumpy, and there’s a greater chance of the vehicle sliding if you
brake or turn quickly on wet soil, gravel, or another slippery surface.
Never go faster than conditions allow.
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