If the rear of your vehicle starts to skid left, you should:
Answers
Steer left.
Hit your brakes.
Accelerate.
Steer right.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
If the rear of your vehicle starts to skid to the left, the correct response is to steer left. This technique, known as “steering into the skid,” helps realign the vehicle’s front wheels with its rear wheels, allowing the tires to regain traction and stabilize the vehicle.
Understanding Skidding:
Skidding occurs when a vehicle loses traction with the road surface, often due to wet, icy, or slippery conditions. When the rear wheels lose grip and slide to the left, the vehicle’s rear end moves leftward, while the front wheels may continue straight or veer right.
Corrective Action:
To correct a leftward skid:
- Steer Left: Turn the steering wheel to the left, aligning the front wheels with the direction of the skid.
- Avoid Braking: Do not apply the brakes abruptly, as this can worsen the skid.
- Ease Off the Accelerator: Gradually release the gas pedal to reduce speed and regain control.
- Regain Traction: Once the vehicle straightens, gently accelerate to stabilize it.
Why Steering Left Helps:
Steering left when the rear skids left helps counteract the oversteer, bringing the vehicle back in line with its intended path. This action allows the tires to regain traction, reducing the risk of spinning out.
Additional Tips:
- Stay Calm: Panicking can lead to overcorrection.
- Practice: Consider practicing skid recovery techniques in a controlled environment to build confidence.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth to maintain optimal traction.
By understanding and applying these techniques, you can effectively manage and recover from a leftward skid, enhancing your safety on the road.