When managing a skid, what should you do?

Managing a skid effectively requires the driver to regain control of the vehicle, and steering in the direction you want to go is a critical component of this process. When a vehicle begins to skid, it is often due to a loss of traction between the tires and the road. By steering into the skid, you can help realign the vehicle's direction with the path you intend to take, which promotes a smoother recovery.

This technique works because it allows the driver to counteract the forces that are causing the skid. For instance, if the rear of the vehicle is sliding to the left, steering left helps to transfer weight back onto the front tires and regain grip. This proactive steering is essential in helping to stabilize the vehicle and prevent further loss of control.

In contrast, braking hard during a skid can worsen the situation by locking the wheels and reducing overall control, while accelerating steadily is counterproductive and can exacerbate the skid. Turning off the engine would not address the immediate issue of regaining traction or control; it might even create further complications. Therefore, steering in the intended direction is the most effective method for managing a skid.