What is the first step you should take if your vehicle starts to skid?

When your vehicle starts to skid, the first step is to steer in the direction of the skid. Doing this helps to regain control of the vehicle by aligning the tires with the path of movement. By steering into the skid, you are effectively shifting the weight of the vehicle and allowing the wheels to regain traction, which can help prevent a complete loss of control.

Steering in the opposite direction of the skid can exacerbate the situation, as it may further destabilize the vehicle, leading to a tighter or more uncontrollable spin. Similarly, applying the brakes immediately is usually not advisable, as it can cause the wheels to lock up, making it even harder to regain control. Turning off the engine does not address the immediate need for control during the skid and could potentially lead to a dangerous situation if the brakes are not engaged. Thus, steering in the direction of the skid is the most effective and safe response to help stabilize your vehicle and guide it back to safety.