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Safety
FIRST! YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE VEHICLE BEHIND YOU! Always
keep the vehicle behind you on your mirrors in case something happens.
At
all intersections make sure the vehicle behind you knows which way
to go. If there is any doubt, wait until you see them make the
turn. If
the vehicle behind you stops for any reason, wait until they get
going again.
Get
lost together. Unless it is previously agreed upon to split up the
group, don't. Work out any differences of opinion before acting
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Drive "as slow as
possible, as fast as necessary" Remember to use the gears to efficiently manage
engine power, braking and torque.
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BE
ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE! We support the "Tread
Lightly!" program that teaches land awareness policy which
stresses environmental conservation in order to ensure the long-term
preservation of our natural heritage.
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Recognize
that Land Rovers and Land Rover Owners are differentially able. Try to
be patient. The diversity of the trip attendees is generally a
positive thing. But everyone must be willing to compromise. Try and
describe expected trip conditions/attitudes up front so people can
make a decision on whether to attend and with what vehicle. Ask before
you commit to something you won't be comfortable with.
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Be
on time at the expedition starting point.
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Always
keep moving.
We
will stop more than enough times to discuss directions, take
pictures, eat lunch, fix Land Rovers, etc. Minimize unnecessary
stopping.
If
you do stop let everyone know why and for approximately how long.
Nothing is more frustrating than being at the back of a convoy and
not knowing what is going on.
If
you see something you feel is interesting and want to stop and
investigate please call it to the group's attention.. It is likely
others are thinking the same thing or just happened to miss seeing
it. I think to often we drive by interesting places, side trails,
etc., just because no one wants to be the one to stop the convoy.
(Use judgment if it is getting late in the day.)
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Pack appropriately. Pack supplies, tools and extra gear, just in
case. Be sure the gear is secured inside the vehicle so it doesn't bounce around while
you're off-road.
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Verify that your vehicle is in sound mechanical condition before
you leave.
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In remote
areas travel with another vehicle.
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Call
all in oncoming traffic or obstacles. Much of the time dust obscures
the trailing vehicle's vision. (See 4)
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Know the underside of your vehicle. Look under your vehicle and
learn where the lowest-hanging parts are located so you can avoid damaging them.
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Learn your angles. Study and know your approach and departure
angles as well as your turnover angle to avoid damaging your vehicle.
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Don't
tailgate. Leave plenty of space. The person in front of you won't let
you get lost. (See 1) Keep any mishaps isolated to one vehicle
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Scout tricky terrain on foot. Don't hesitate to get out of the
vehicle to examine, up close, the terrain and soil conditions. And be sure to scout out
what's on the other side of a hill ahead of time so there are no surprises.
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Don't wrap your thumbs around the steering wheel. Sudden steering
wheel movements can result in injury.
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Drive with both feet. Having both feet on the pedals speeds up
your response time for needed power and braking input.
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Create a mental picture. Look ahead and visualize the paths you
want your tires to travel. Follow those paths.
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Drive straight up and down hills. Avoid diagonal lines that put
the vehicle in a situation where it might roll.
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Wear your seat belt and be safe.
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Keep the environment clean. Carry your own-and maybe other
people's trash home.
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Obtain permission before driving on private land. Leave livestock
alone and gates as found.
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Respect our wildlife. Stop and look, but never disturb or chase
animals.
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Respect other
recreationalist's rights to peace and solitude
outdoors.
