How should a driver respond to a vehicle skid?

Responding to a skid correctly is essential for maintaining control of the vehicle and ensuring safety on the road. When a vehicle begins to skid, whether due to wet or icy conditions, the appropriate action is to steer into the skid. This means that if the rear of the vehicle begins to slide to the right, the driver should gently steer to the right. This technique helps align the front wheels with the direction the vehicle is sliding, allowing for better control and grip on the road.

Avoiding excessive braking is also crucial because braking can worsen the loss of traction, making the skid more severe. Instead, maintaining a steady pressure on the accelerator (if safe to do so) or simply letting off the accelerator can help regain traction. This method allows the vehicle to stabilize as the driver works to regain control, rather than oversteering or making sudden movements that could exacerbate the situation.

Properly understanding this response is vital for drivers to minimize the risk of an accident during adverse driving conditions.