How should you react if you begin to skid on a wet or icy surface?

• A. Steer in the direction of the skid and avoid slamming the brakes; if you have ABS, apply steady pressure to the brake pedal.
• B. Slam on the emergency brake and steer opposite to the skid.
• C. Steer opposite to the skid and brake hard.
• D. Take your foot off the pedals and coast to a stop.

Answer: (A)

When a skid starts, the tires have lost grip, so your priority is to regain control by steering toward the direction you want the front of the car to go. Quick, opposite or jerky steering tends to worsen the skid, so smooth, progressive steering into the skid helps you reorient the tires with the road.

Braking behavior matters too. Avoid slamming the brakes. If your vehicle has ABS, press the brake pedal steadily and firmly; the ABS will modulate braking to prevent wheel lock, helping you maintain steering control and steer out of the skid. Coasting or taking your foot off the pedals reduces your ability to regain traction and can let the skid continue longer. Slamming the brakes or braking hard opposite the skid is likely to lock wheels and spin you further.