What is the appropriate action if your vehicle begins to skid?

When your vehicle begins to skid, the appropriate action is to steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. This technique, often referred to as "steering into the skid," helps to regain control over the vehicle. When a vehicle skids, it is losing traction, and by turning the steering wheel towards the direction you want to travel, you can realign the wheels with the direction of the road, improving the chances of regaining control.

This method is effective because it counteracts the momentum that is causing the skid. If you steer into the skid, you are allowing the rear wheels to settle back under the car, which can help correct the slide. It’s important to avoid making sudden or excessive steering movements, as this can further exacerbate the skid.

Other actions, such as braking hard, can often lead to a loss of control rather than regain it. Thus, remaining calm and directing your steering towards the desired path is crucial during a skid situation. Turning on hazard lights, while helpful for signaling to other drivers, does not address the immediate issue of controlling the skid.