Black plate (5,1)Cadillac SRX Owner Manual - 2011Driving and Operating 9-5SteeringPower SteeringIf power steering assist is lostbecause the engine stops or thepower steering system is notfunctioning, the vehicle can besteered but it will take more effort.Steering TipsIt is important to take curves at areasonable speed.Traction in a curve depends onthe condition of the tires and theroad surface, the angle at which thecurve is banked, and vehicle speed.While in a curve, speed is the onefactor that can be controlled.If there is a need to reduce speed,do it before entering the curve, whilethe front wheels are straight.Try to adjust the speed so you candrive through the curve. Maintain areasonable, steady speed. Wait toaccelerate until out of the curve,and then accelerate gently into thestraightaway.Steering in EmergenciesThere are times when steeringcan be more effective than braking.For example, you come over a hilland find a truck stopped in yourlane, or a car suddenly pulls outfrom nowhere, or a child darts outfrom between parked cars and stopsright in front of you. These problemscan be avoided by braking — if youcan stop in time. But sometimes youcannot stop in time because thereis no room. That is the time forevasive action — steering aroundthe problem.The vehicle can perform very wellin emergencies like these. Firstapply the brakes. See Braking onpage 9‑4. It is better to removeas much speed as possible froma collision. Then steer aroundthe problem, to the left or rightdepending on the space available.An emergency like this requiresclose attention and a quick decision.If holding the steering wheel at therecommended 9 and 3 o'clockpositions, it can be turned a full180 degrees very quickly withoutremoving either hand. But you haveto act fast, steer quickly, and just asquickly straighten the wheel onceyou have avoided the object.The fact that such emergencysituations are always possible is agood reason to practice defensivedriving at all times and wear safetybelts properly.
