If your vehicle begins to skid, you should:
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
If your vehicle begins to skid, you should steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go and avoid slamming on the brakes. Additionally, ease off the accelerator to help regain control.
Explanation:
A skid occurs when your tires lose traction with the road surface, often due to wet, icy, or uneven conditions. Knowing how to handle a skid is essential for safe driving. Here’s why and how to manage it:
- Steering in the direction you want to go:
When skidding, your instinct might be to turn the wheel in the opposite direction, but this can worsen the skid. Instead, gently steer in the direction you want the front of your car to face. For example, if the rear of your car slides to the right, you should steer right. This action helps align the tires with the path you intend to travel, which can regain traction. - Avoid slamming on the brakes:
Abrupt braking can lock the wheels, especially if your car lacks anti-lock brakes (ABS). Locked wheels reduce traction further, making it harder to regain control. If you have ABS, you may feel pulsations in the pedal when braking, which is normal and indicates the system is working. - Ease off the accelerator:
Accelerating during a skid can exacerbate the loss of traction. Letting up on the gas allows the tires to slow naturally and begin gripping the road again. Sudden changes in speed, either braking or accelerating, disrupt the balance of the car.
Skid Types:
- Oversteer: The rear tires lose traction, causing the car’s rear to slide outward. Correct with gentle steering adjustments toward the skid.
- Understeer: The front tires lose traction, and the car doesn’t turn as expected. Ease off the gas and steer slightly toward the desired path.
Understanding these principles ensures a controlled recovery from skids, helping to prevent accidents and maintain road safety.