Departure angles refer to the angle at which a vehicle, such as an automobile or truck, departs from a straight path. This term is commonly used in off-road driving and refers to the angle between the ground and the direction of travel when a driver turns away from a direct line of motion. In other words, it's the angle at which a vehicle leaves its original course. Departure angles are important for determining how well a vehicle can navigate challenging terrain or obstacles, as they affect the vehicle's ability to climb steep inclines and avoid getting stuck in muddy or rocky areas.