General precautions

WARNING
  • Loose objects in the driver's foot area could interfere with the operation of the foot pedals, possibly causing an accident.

  • Focus on the road while driving. The driver's primary responsibility is in the safe and legal operation of the vehicle. Use of any handheld devices, other equipment or vehicle systems that distract the driver should not be used during vehicle operation.

  • Always check the surrounding areas near your vehicle for people, especially children, before putting a vehicle into D (Drive) or R (Reverse).

  • Securely store items in your vehicle. When you make a sudden stop or turn the steering wheel rapidly, loose objects may drop on the floor and it could interfere with the operation of the foot pedals, possibly causing an accident.

  • Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other impairing substances. Drinking and driving is dangerous. Even a small amount of alcohol will affect your reflexes, perceptions and judgment.

    Driving while under the influence of drugs or other impairing substances is as dangerous as or more dangerous than driving drunk.

  • Always wear appropriate shoes when operating your vehicle. Unsuitable shoes (high heels, ski boots, sandals, etc.) may interfere with your ability to use the brake and accelerator pedals.

  • If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., then you may attempt to rock the vehicle free by moving it forward and backward. Do not attempt this procedure if people or objects are anywhere near the vehicle. During the rocking operation the vehicle may suddenly move forward or backward as it becomes unstuck, causing injury or damage to nearby people or objects.

  • When driving uphill or downhill, always shift to D (Drive) for driving forward or shift to R (Reverse) for driving backwards, and check the gear position indicated on the cluster before driving. Driving in the opposite direction of the selected gear can lead to a dangerous situation by shutting off the vehicle and affecting the braking performance.

  • ALWAYS wear your seat belt. In a collision, an unbelted occupant is significantly more likely to be seriously injured or killed than a properly belted occupant.

  • Avoid high speeds when cornering or turning.

  • Do not make quick steering wheel movements, such as sharp lane changes or fast, sharp turns.

  • The risk of a rollover is greatly increased if you lose control of your vehicle at highway speeds.

  • Losing control often occurs if two or more wheels drop off the roadway and the driver oversteers to reenter the roadway.

  • In the event your vehicle leaves the roadway, do not steer sharply. Instead, slow down before pulling back into the travel lanes.

  • Never exceed posted speed limits.