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 the lane, 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.

If you cannot fully stop, follow these suggestions:

. Quickly apply the brakes to remove as much speed as possible from a collision.

. Steer around the problem, to the left to right depending on available space.

. Straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.

    See also:

    Braking
    See Brake System Warning Light . Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. Deciding to push the brake pedal is perception time. Actually doing it is reaction time. Average reaction ...

    Driving with a Trailer
    Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Get to know the rig before setting out for the open road. Get acquainted with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of t ...

    Backing Up
    Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back u ...