1994 Cadillac Fleetwood Owner's Manual - Page 197

LOSS OF CONTROL Let's reviewwhat driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don't haveenough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, don't give Keep trying to steerand constantly seek up. an escape route orarea of less danger. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skidsby taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions,and by not "overdriving"those conditions. But skids are always possible. The threetypes of skids correspond to your Cadillac'sthree control systems. In thebraking skid your wheels aren't rolling. thesteering or In cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires slip to and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid too much throttle causes the driving wheelsto spin. A cornering skid is best handled by easing yourfoot off the accelerator pedal. Remember: Any traction control system helps avoid onlythe 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 theway you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehiclemay straighten out. Always be ready for a second skidif it occurs. Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel, other or material is on the road. For safety, you'll want to slow down and adjust your drivingto these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While drivingon a surface with reduced traction, try yourbest to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes couldcause the tires to 184