Which factors can contribute to loss of control on road curves?

Loss of control on road curves can be attributed to several critical factors that affect vehicle stability and driver perception. Adverse superelevation involves the banking of the road; when the curve is not banked appropriately, it can cause vehicles to slide outward due to insufficient centrifugal force acting on the vehicle.

Poor sight distance can hinder a driver's ability to anticipate the curve's sharpness and react accordingly, particularly in low visibility conditions or if there are obstructions such as vegetation or roadside structures. This can lead to misjudgment of speed and steering angles, contributing to loss of control.

Surface condition also plays a vital role. Wet, icy, or otherwise compromised surfaces reduce friction between the tires and the road, increasing the likelihood of skidding and loss of control, especially when navigating curves where lateral forces are more pronounced.

By recognizing how these three factors—adverse superelevation, poor sight distance, and surface condition—interact and contribute to the dynamics of vehicle handling on curves, engineers can design safer roadways and implement effective measures to mitigate these risks.