Steering in Emergencies

There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. These problems can be avoided by braking — if you can stop in time. But sometimes you cannot stop in time because there is no room. That is the time for evasive action — steering around the problem.

The vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply the brakes. See Braking.

It is better to remove as much speed as possible from a collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available.

An emergency like this requires close attention and a

An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, it can be turned a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.

The fact that such emergency situations are always possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety belts properly.

    See also:

    Compass
    Compass Operation There is a compass display in the upper right corner of the mirror. Compass Calibration Press and hold to activate the compass calibration mode. CAL displays in the compass ...

    Video Screens
    The video screens are located in the back of the driver and front passenger seats. To use the video screen: 1. Push the release button located on the seatback console. 2. Move the screen to ...

    Manual Rearview Mirror
    Adjust the inside rearview mirror for a clear view of the area behind your vehicle. To avoid glare of the headlamps from behind, push the tab forward for daytime and pull it for nighttime us ...