What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid on a slippery road?

When a vehicle begins to skid on a slippery road, the most effective course of action is to release pressure from the gas or brake pedal and steer in the direction of the skid. This technique helps you regain control of the vehicle by allowing the tires to regain traction with the road surface.

During a skid, the rear wheels lose traction, causing the vehicle to slide. If you steer into the direction of the skid, it helps realign the vehicle with the path you want to follow, promoting stability. This action encourages the rear wheels to regain their grip, allowing you to get back on track more safely.

Other strategies, such as braking firmly or accelerating, may worsen the situation. Braking abruptly can further reduce traction and lead to a loss of control, while accelerating increases the chances of skidding more dramatically. Steering hard in the opposite direction of the skid can also be counterproductive, potentially causing more instability and increasing the risk of losing control. Thus, the correct technique focuses on gentle steering and easing off the pedals for a safer recovery.