11 Jan Cruise Control Driving
Cruise Control Driving
Cruise control can make long-distance driving more comfortable by maintaining a selected vehicle speed without continuous pressure on the accelerator. When used under appropriate conditions, it may help reduce driver fatigue and unintended speeding. However, cruise control does not replace attentive driving and should only be used when road, weather, and traffic conditions allow the driver to safely maintain a steady speed.
When to Use Cruise Control
Cruise control is generally best suited for dry, open highways with light traffic and relatively straight, level roads.
Avoid using cruise control:
- In heavy or stop-and-go traffic.
- On city streets with frequent intersections or traffic signals.
- On wet, icy, snowy, or otherwise slippery roads.
- During heavy rain or when hydroplaning is possible.
- On steep grades where additional speed control is necessary.
- On winding roads or where frequent speed changes are required.
- In construction or work zones when changing conditions require frequent adjustments.
- Whenever visibility or road conditions make maintaining a constant speed unsafe.
Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions regarding when and how cruise control should be used.
Stay Alert and in Control
Cruise control maintains speed—it does not take responsibility for driving the vehicle. The driver remains responsible for steering, braking, maintaining a safe following distance, and responding to changing conditions.
While using cruise control:
- Stay focused on driving and continuously scan the roadway.
- Monitor traffic, pedestrians, road conditions, and potential hazards.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Keep your hands properly positioned on the steering wheel.
- Keep your feet positioned so you can quickly operate the accelerator and brake.
- Never use cruise control as an opportunity to relax your attention or engage in distracting activities.
- Always wear your seat belt.
Fatigue can create a false sense of security during long periods of highway driving. If you become tired or drowsy, do not rely on cruise control to compensate. Stop in a safe location and rest.
Wet, Icy, and Slippery Roads
Do not use conventional cruise control when traction may be reduced by:
- Rain or standing water.
- Snow or ice.
- Hail, sleet, or freezing rain.
- Mud, gravel, or other loose surfaces.
Loss of traction can cause the vehicle to skid or hydroplane. Maintaining automatic acceleration under these conditions may make it more difficult to regain control.
Electronic stability control, traction control, and other vehicle safety systems do not make unsafe cruise-control use safe. Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
Hills and Curves
Cruise control may not provide the level of speed management needed on steep grades or winding roads.
When approaching curves or steep grades:
- Reduce speed before entering a curve.
- Select an appropriate speed for roadway and weather conditions.
- Be prepared to disengage cruise control.
- Use appropriate braking and gearing when descending steep grades.
- Never allow the vehicle to exceed the posted speed limit or a speed that is safe for conditions.
Know Your Vehicle
Cruise-control systems vary significantly among vehicles. Some vehicles have conventional cruise control, while others have adaptive cruise control capable of adjusting speed based on traffic ahead.
Before using any system:
- Read the vehicle owner’s manual.
- Understand how to activate, set, adjust, cancel, and completely turn off the system.
- Understand the system’s limitations.
- Never assume adaptive cruise control will detect every vehicle, pedestrian, obstruction, or roadway hazard.
- Keep cruise control turned off when it is not being used.
Remember
Cruise control is a driver-assistance feature, not an autonomous driving system. The driver must remain alert and ready to take control at all times.
Use cruise control only when traffic, weather, visibility, and roadway conditions allow a steady speed to be maintained safely. When conditions become uncertain, disengage cruise control and manually control the vehicle.