How do you correct a rear-wheel acceleration skid?

To correct a rear-wheel acceleration skid, the most effective action is to stop accelerating. When the rear wheels begin to skid, it typically indicates that they are losing traction, often due to excessive speed or power being applied to the drive wheels. By ceasing acceleration, you reduce the torque on the rear wheels, allowing them to regain grip on the road surface.

This response is crucial in restoring control of the vehicle, as continuing to accelerate would exacerbate the loss of traction, increasing the likelihood of a spin. Once acceleration stops, the driver can then steer into the direction of the skid to regain stability, maintaining control throughout the recovery process.

Other options, such as applying the brakes firmly, can worsen the skid by further destabilizing the vehicle. Shifting into a lower gear does not effectively address the immediate problem, as it may lead to unnecessary engine braking, which could also contribute to losing control. Steering into the skid is a potential recovery technique but is secondary to first stopping acceleration.