Why is it important to be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?

Being in the proper gear before starting down a hill is crucial primarily because it helps to maintain vehicle control and stability. Selecting the correct gear allows the engine to assist in braking, which is essential when descending a slope. When a vehicle is in a lower gear, the engine's natural resistance, or engine braking, can slow the vehicle down, reducing reliance on the brakes alone, which may overheat and fail if overused.

Also, while you might think that you can't shift gears while going downhill, it is actually more difficult and less safe to do so once you are already in motion. At high speeds, shifting can lead to loss of control, especially on steep grades. Thus, it is safer and more effective to preemptively select the correct gear before beginning your descent. This helps to ensure a smoother, safer approach to navigating down the hill, aligning with safe driving practices.

Maintaining the proper speed during the descent is also a critical factor, and using the right gear contributes significantly to that. If a driver chooses a gear too high, they might pick up excessive speed, while a low gear keeps them within safe limits.