What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid?

When your vehicle starts to skid, the most effective response is to steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. This method helps regain control by aligning the front of the vehicle with the path you intend to travel. When skidding occurs, the tires lose traction with the road, and steering in the direction of where you want the car to go signals the vehicle to follow that trajectory.

This technique allows you to navigate out of the skid rather than continuing to slide uncontrollably. It re-establishes stability as the vehicle's wheels begin to grip the road surface again.

In contrast, braking hard can exacerbate the skid, as it can further destabilize the vehicle's balance and lead to a loss of control. Steering in the opposite direction of the skid may not address the issue effectively, as it could create a situation known as ‘counter-steering,’ which can lead to a spin if not executed correctly. Keeping the wheels straight may seem like a safe option, but it does not actively help regain control of the vehicle, potentially prolonging the skid and making it more difficult to steer out of the situation.