What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid?

When your vehicle begins to skid, the appropriate response is to steer into the direction of the skid. This means if the rear of the vehicle is sliding to the right, you should turn the steering wheel to the right. This action helps to regain control of the vehicle by aligning the front wheels with the direction the vehicle is sliding, allowing the tires to regain traction with the roadway.

Steering into the skid helps to counteract the loss of control caused by the slippery surface and brings the vehicle back into alignment. This technique is crucial in helping drivers navigate out of potentially dangerous situations, as it allows for smoother recovery from a skid.

In contrast, braking hard can exacerbate the skid by locking the wheels, making it more difficult to steer or regain control. Turning the steering wheel firmly can also lead to loss of control, especially if done abruptly. Accelerating is typically not advisable during a skid, as it can further reduce traction and possibly worsen the situation. Thus, understanding how to properly react to a skid is vital for safe driving practices.