Texas Defensive Driving Written Practice Test

What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid?

1. Steer in the opposite direction of the skid

2. Steer in the direction you want to go

3. Apply your brakes immediately

4. Accelerate to regain control

The correct answer is: Steer in the direction you want to go

When your vehicle begins to skid, the appropriate response is to steer in the direction you want to go. This technique is known as "steering into the skid." By doing this, you allow the vehicle's tires to regain traction and bring the vehicle back under control. If you steer away from the skid, the back of the vehicle can swing out further, making the situation more dangerous and difficult to control. Applying your brakes immediately during a skid can lead to further loss of control, as braking can cause the wheels to lock up and result in a skid that is even harder to manage. Similarly, accelerating may exacerbate the skid because it increases the speed and can worsen traction issues. Therefore, the most effective way to manage a skid is by steering in the direction of your desired path, allowing the vehicle to realign itself safely.