’01 L/C U (L/O 0008)175
Off
−road vehicle precautions
This vehicle belongs to the ut ility ve-
hicle class, which has higher ground
clearance and narrower tread in relation
to the height of its center of gravity to
make it capable of performing in a wide
variety of off −road applications. Specif-
ic design characteristics give it a high-
er center of gravity than ordinary pas-
senger cars. This vehicle design
feature causes this type of vehicle to
be more likely to rollover. And, utility
vehicles have a significantly higher rol-
lover rate than other types of vehicles.
An advantage of the higher ground
clearance is a better view of the road
allowing you to anticipate problems. It
is not designed for cornering at the
same speeds as ordinary passenger
cars any more than low −slung sports
cars designed to perform satisfactorily
under off −road conditions. Therefore,
sharp turns at excessive speeds may
cause rollover.CAUTION
Always observe the following precau-
tions to minimize the risk of serious
personal injury or damage to your ve-
hicle: In a rollover crash, an unbelted per-
son is significantly more likely to
die than a person wearing a seat
belt. Therefore, the driver and all
passengers should fasten their seat
belts whenever the vehicle is mov-
ing.
Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneu-
vers, if at all possible. Failure to
operate this vehicle correctly may
result in loss of control or vehicle
rollover causing death or serious in-
jury.
Avoid loading any items on the roof
that will raise the vehicle’s center
of gravity.
Always slow down in gusty cross-
winds. Because of its profile and
higher center of gravity, your ve-
hicle is more sensitive to side
winds than an ordinary passenger
car. Slowing down will allow you
to have better control.
