SUV's can make you feel safer, but they come with their own challenges.SUVs aren't fully equipped for off-road terrain and can be prone to rollovers.If you know what you're doing, driving an SUV is safe.
Step 1: Your tires should be aired up.
The size and weight of SUVs make tire pressure more important than other smaller vehicles.SUVs are prone to rolling and are sometimes used for off-roading.The tires on your SUV need to be balanced to avoid dangerous conditions.The owner's manual can be used to read the recommended air pressure in your vehicle.This is the best place to find the right tire pressure.The maximum tire pressure on the side of your tire is the measurement you should not use.After a cold front or the first hot day of the year, check your tire pressure once a month.When you haven't driven on them much, it's a good time to test your tires.You can use a tire gauge at home or a gas station.The reading should be compared to the recommended tire pressure.Air up your tires if the reading is below the recommended tire pressure.Push the valve to let out some of the air if it's higher than recommended.
Step 2: Before getting into the driver's seat, you should check your vehicle.
Since SUVs are so high off the ground, it's hard to see if items, pets, or people are around your vehicle.Make sure the area is clear before you get in the car.
Step 3: The mirrors need to be adjusted.
Make sure that you have good visibility behind and around your vehicle by checking the side mirrors.You'll need your best line of sight to navigate an SUV.Your rear window should have a full picture of your car behind it.The side mirrors should be at an angle that shows the side of the car.To get the best view of your car, tilt the mirror just wide enough.
Step 4: Don't be distracted.
At all times, keep your eyes open.You should be more alert when driving an SUV because it takes longer to stop.Don't use your phone, eat snacks, put on makeup, or listen to your radio.
Step 5: Slowly increase the speed.
You'll need to increase your speed slowly because of the size of your vehicle.Pressing on the gas can make it harder to drive.
Step 6: In front of you, allow extra space between you and the vehicle.
It will take more space for your vehicle to stop because it weighs more than a smaller vehicle.The SUV will take longer to stop because of it's weight.If you don't have enough room to stop, avoid tailgating other vehicles.The "three second rule" is a way to determine a safe driving distance.A landmark is like a sign.Count how long it takes for the car in front of you to pass the landmark.There should be at least three seconds between you and the other vehicle.Allow for more than three seconds in an SUV.
Step 7: It's a good idea to avoid swerving.
If you turn the wheel too quickly, your SUV is more likely to roll over.Keep a firm hand on your steering wheel and slowly pump the brakes.
Step 8: Slow down on roads that are curved.
SUVs can roll on curved roads, making them a hazard.When driving a winding road, lower your speed and try to anticipate curves.You should drive slowly so that you don't have to turn the wheel.A safe speed on most winding roads is between 20 and 30 mph (32.2 and 48.3 km/h).
Step 9: Don't make sudden turns.
It is possible for a sudden turn to shift your vehicle's weight and cause it to lose its balance.As you get closer to the turn, lightly pump the brakes.If you can, circle back to your destination after a sudden turn.It is not possible on a winding road when you miss an exit or turn off.
Step 10: You don't want to store items on the roof.
The center of gravity of your SUV can be shifted by storing items on the roof.It's important to keep your cargo inside the vehicle.
Step 11: It's better to drive slower in a smaller vehicle.
SUVs have 4-wheel drive, so they can speed up more quickly than a regular car.They don't slow down any faster.Their size makes it take longer to slow down.If you want to stop in a reasonable space, drive slowly.You should reduce your speed by at least ten miles.
Step 12: Go off-road during bad weather.
When the weather is bad, you shouldn't take your SUV off-road.In the wet, muddy, or icy conditions, your vehicle won't be able to navigate very well.All-wheel drive doesn't mean that your vehicle is safe in bad conditions.
Step 13: When the roads are wet, drive in the middle lane.
The middle lane is the least wet part of the road because water gathers on the sides.It will be harder for you to stop if the roads are wet.
Step 14: Slow down when the roads are wet.
Wet and icy roads can cause hydroplaning.Lower your speed to make it easier to navigate out of dangerous situations.Give yourself plenty of time to stop.Slow down around bridges, overpasses, and shady spots that are susceptible to black ice.You need to drive at least ten miles less than the speed limit.
Step 15: Cruise control can be used on icy roads.
When roads are icy and cruise control takes away some of your control, you need to be in full control.Use only your pedals to increase and decrease speeds.
Step 16: Extreme off-roading is not recommended.
SUVs aren't made for extreme conditions.Pick only mild off-road conditions if your model says it is made for extreme terrain.Dirt roads, firm soil, and flat areas are what you should stick to.
Step 17: Tell people where you are going and how long you will be there.
If you're alone and planning to drive somewhere remote, this is especially true.If your vehicle becomes stuck or disabled, you will need someone to look for you.It's a good idea to tell someone where you're going before you go off-road.
Step 18: All cargo must be secured.
Your vehicle's center of gravity will shift due to loose cargo moving around.You could be at risk for an accident.Tie down your cargo and put it in the back of your vehicle.
Step 19: You should engage your all-wheel drive.
All-wheel drive will help you navigate the natural terrain better, and it will keep your vehicle from getting stuck if some of your wheels lose traction in the soil.
Step 20: You can use your downhill brake assist.
Even mild off-road conditions can have dips, so make sure your vehicle is set in assist mode so that you can stop if you need to.
Step 21: The SUV should be in first gear.
First gear is the best choice because you will need to move as slowly as possible and with as much control as you can have over the vehicle.You will inch forward slowly when you are off-road.