What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid?

When your vehicle starts to skid, the correct action is to steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. This technique is fundamental in regaining control of the vehicle. When skidding, the rear wheels lose traction, and your vehicle can begin to rotate. By steering toward where you want the front of the car to align, you help to counteract the skid and allow the vehicle to regain traction.

For instance, if the rear of your vehicle is sliding to the right, turning your steering wheel to the right will help to realign the car and keep it moving in the intended direction. This action helps the vehicle to gradually regain stability and control as the tires find their grip again on the road surface.

In contrast, other options like braking hard can lead to a loss of further control by exacerbating the skid, and turning the wheel in the opposite direction can create a situation where you are fighting against the natural movement of the skid, leading to a potential spin. Accelerating during a skid can also be dangerous, as it may lead to a loss of control altogether, as the rear wheels may continue to slide, making recovery much more challenging. Understanding proper skid recovery techniques is crucial for safe driving in adverse conditions.