Lesson Five: Motion Control (1.5)

Failing to control vehicle balance can result in a crash. Drivers can manage the balance of the vehicle by controlling braking, acceleration, and steering. Keep your actions smooth and precise.

 Vehicle Balance

Pitch: _______________________________________________

Roll: _______________________________________________

Yaw: _______________________________________________

The most common out-of-balance condition occurs when braking or accelerating.  Planting the heel of your foot on the floorboard and pivoting from the brake to the accelerator allows you to have greater control over the amount of pressure applied to the accelerator and brake pedal.  These controlled and smooth actions help you maintain vehicle balance.

When stopping or braking a slight release of pressure on the brake pedal is called trail braking. This technique can greatly reduce pitch when stopping.

 Pivot