What is the definition of counter-steering?

Counter-steering refers to the technique of turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction of where the vehicle is skidding or sliding. This method helps regain control by initiating a corrective action that stabilizes the vehicle. For instance, if a truck begins to skid to the left, the driver would turn the steering wheel to the right. This action helps realign the wheels with the desired path, allowing for better traction and recovery from the skid.

This technique is particularly important in situations where drivers may encounter slippery surfaces or abrupt maneuvers, as it assists in maintaining vehicle stability. Understanding counter-steering is crucial for drivers, especially those operating larger vehicles, since they can be more difficult to control in adverse conditions. Other responses, such as accelerating after skidding or using brakes to avoid skidding, are related to managing skids but do not specifically address the technique of counter-steering itself.