Gmc 2008 Canyon User Manual download pdf (Page 212)

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, the wheels

are not 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.

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

want to slow down and adjust your driving to these

conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery

surfaces because stopping distance is 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 reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a

lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to

slide. You might 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 Antilock Brake System (ABS) helps

avoid only the braking skid.

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Gmc 2008 Canyon User Manual Page 212