What should a driver do when skidding?

When a driver experiences skidding, the primary objective is to regain control of the vehicle. Allowing the tires to reestablish rolling friction is the most effective action to take in such a situation. When the tires skid, they stop rolling and instead slide over the surface, which can lead to a loss of control. By easing off the accelerator and steering in the direction you want the vehicle to go, the tires can regain grip on the road.

This method is based on the principle that rolling tires provide better traction compared to sliding tires, which is crucial for steering and maintaining control over the vehicle. This technique helps drivers manage skids safely, especially in slippery conditions.

On the other hand, accelerating during a skid can exacerbate the loss of control, as the vehicle will continue to slide rather than regain traction. Braking hard can lead to locking the wheels, further preventing them from rolling and increasing the possibility of a complete loss of control. Sharply turning the steering wheel can also lead to oversteering or understeering, complicating the recovery process instead of aiding it. Thus, focusing on letting the tires reestablish rolling friction is the best choice in this situation.