Cadillac 2000 Catera Owner's Manual download pdf (Page 190)

4-15

Skidding

In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.

Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable

care suited to existing conditions, and by not

“overdriving” those conditions. But skids are

always possible.

The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle’s

three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels

aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too

much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and

lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too

much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.

A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off

the accelerator pedal.

Remember: Any traction control system helps avoid

only the acceleration skid.

If your traction control system is off, then an

acceleration skid is also best handled by easing your

foot off the accelerator pedal.

If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the

accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want

the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough,

your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a

second skid if it occurs.

Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice,

gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll

want to slow down and adjust your driving to these

conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery

surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and

vehicle control more limited.

While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try

your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or

braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower

gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide.

You may not realize the surface is slippery until your

vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning

clues

-- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on

the road to make a “mirrored surface”

-- and slow

down when you have any doubt.

Remember: Any anti

-lock brake system (ABS) helps

avoid only the braking skid.

1 2 ... 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 ... 320 321

Comments to this Manuals

No comments

Cadillac 2000 Catera Owner's Manual Page 190

Comments to this Manuals

Related products and manuals for Cars Cadillac 2000 Catera