Off-Road Driving Guide

Off-road driving can be dangerous if done improperly. Beginners should thoroughly read the owner’s manual of their vehicle before venturing off-road. Listed below are some tips to keep yourself safe when driving on rough terrain.

Two by Two

If you are a beginner, never drive alone. If a problem occurs on the highway, it is fairly easy to wait for another motorists and call highway patrol to help you. However, if you are driving in the wilderness where there is no cell phone service, it will be very difficult to get help if you are stuck. Before driving, you will also need to think about stocking up on water, food, and other supplies in case you need to continue on foot.

Vehicle Preparation

Always make sure your vehicle is properly suited for off-road driving. Some used diesel trucks may be perfect for rough terrain, while others may be poorly suited. In addition, you should also get cheap mud tires in case you drive through wet roads.

Driving Posture

Always keep an upright and relaxed position when driving off-road, You should have a loose grip on the steering wheel, allowing the vehicle to find its own way over small bumps. Remember to keep your thumbs out of the center part of the wheel if you want to avoid your thumb from getting broken if the steering wheel kicks back. This is very common for a vehicle with no assisted power steering.

Ground Clearance

On vehicles with fixed axles, the minimal ground clearance is defined by the lowest point for the housing of the axle. The lowest ground clearance will always remain the same, so keep it in mind when going over big bumps and large rocks. Even if your wheel is able to make it over a bump, there is a good chance that the axle may get caught and break.