Identify the threatened edge
If you are rising through the opening, the upper far corner may become the immediate concern. If you are descending, inspect the lower far corner. Consider the collision circle’s edge rather than waiting until its center reaches a branch.
An in-gap reversal can begin bending the future path away from that edge. However, the companion keeps traveling along its current heading at the instant of the input. A body already extremely close to the threatened branch can collide before the new curvature creates meaningful clearance.
Do not reverse merely because you entered
There is no special input required at the opening’s midpoint. If the existing trajectory remains clear through the far edge, an automatic tap can introduce an unnecessary bend. Use the visible path to decide whether a correction is needed.
The center crossing and completed gap are also different events. Passing through the middle may register a centered crossing internally, but the score is awarded only after the entire collision circle clears the far side. Remain attentive throughout that final distance.
Turn a failed rescue into an earlier adjustment
After a late collision, ask where the unwanted steepness began. On the next attempt, reverse earlier in the approach or adjust the exit from the preceding gate. The aim is to enter with enough margin that the corridor does not demand a last-second decision.
A successful rescue can still be informative: observe whether it left you climbing or falling awkwardly afterward. Continue planning the next opening rather than treating a single saved gap as evidence that the same late maneuver will work reliably in every course position.