If you find yourself in a skid:
Answers
Brake lightly.
Stay off the brakes.
Brake abruptly.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is “Stay off the brakes.”
When you find yourself in a skid, the most important thing is to avoid making the situation worse by overreacting or trying to force control of the vehicle. Here’s why staying off the brakes is critical:
Explanation:
A skid occurs when a vehicle loses traction with the road, often due to icy, wet, or slippery conditions. The primary goal during a skid is to regain traction and control of the vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of why staying off the brakes is the best response:
- Braking Can Make the Skid Worse:
If you apply the brakes while skidding, especially on a slippery surface, the wheels can lock up. This means the vehicle’s tires are no longer rolling freely, and you lose even more control. The car will continue to slide in the direction it was skidding, increasing the risk of hitting something or going off the road. - Allow the Tires to Regain Traction:
When you stop braking and release the accelerator, the tires are free to regain traction. This gives them a chance to grip the road again, helping to stop the slide. In some cases, you can also use a technique called “steering into the skid” (turning the wheel in the direction you want the front of the car to go). This helps to realign the vehicle with the road and regain control. - Skidding on Different Surfaces:
The type of skid you’re experiencing can vary depending on the surface you’re driving on. Whether it’s snow, ice, or rain, the principle remains the same: braking abruptly or too much can make the skid worse. It’s more effective to gently steer and take your foot off the brake to allow the tires to re-establish grip.
In summary, staying off the brakes in a skid allows your tires to regain traction and helps you regain control of the vehicle, reducing the risk of an accident.