What should you do before entering a curve in the road?

Downshifting before entering a curve in the road is crucial for maintaining control and stability of the vehicle. When you downshift, you are reducing the gear, which helps to slow down the vehicle and allows for better acceleration out of the curve. This technique is particularly important in larger vehicles, like those driven by CDL holders, which have a higher center of gravity and can be more prone to rollover if not handled carefully.

By downshifting, you also utilize engine braking, which aids in maintaining a safe speed as you navigate the curve. It can help prevent oversteering, as you will have more control over the speed and handling of the vehicle. This practice contributes to safer driving in curves, especially in situations where traction might be compromised, such as in wet or icy conditions.

The other choices may not contribute as effectively to safe navigation through curves. Accelerating through the curve can lead to loss of control; checking mirrors, while important for awareness, does not directly affect how the vehicle will handle the curve; signaling, although crucial for communicating intentions to other drivers, does not enhance stability or control in a curve. Thus, downshifting is the most practical and effective response prior to entering a curve.