MANEUVERING UNDER VARIOUS SITUATIONS
Coping with Curves
The best way to take a curve is to slow down before you enter
it.
- Pay attention to road signs that indicate upcoming curves
and recommended speeds.
- Anticipate the amount of slowing required
so you do not have to brake sharply - this could cause a loss
of control.
- When emerging from the curve, gradually apply power
to the gas pedal to reacquire speed.
- Never allow your vehicle to drift into another lane. Centrifugal force
tends to pull your vehicle outward from the curve - toward the left
during a right curve and toward the right during a left curve.
Two lane roads require extra care:
Right curves: Never allow your vehicle to drift into oncoming traffic;
begin the curve by keeping toward the right edge of your lane.
Left curves: Avoid drifting onto the shoulder of the road. Be alert
to the tendency of oncoming vehicles to drift into your lane, since
centrifugal force tends to pull them that way.
Recovering from a pavement drop-off:
- Maneuvering back onto the road after a pavement drop-off can send
you swerving into the path of oncoming traffic, unless you follow certain
steps:
- Stay calm - DO NOT PANIC;
- Do NOT brake sharply;
- Immediately release the gas pedal and allow the vehicle to slow
itself;
- Check for other vehicles and look for a break in traffic;
- When safe, carefully steer back onto the roadway.
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