What is what to do when skidding on ice?

Here's information on what to do when skidding on ice:

When your car starts to skid on ice, it's crucial to remain calm and react properly. Here's a breakdown of the steps to take:

Identify the Skid: Determine what kind of skid you are in. Are your front tires losing grip (understeer) or your rear tires (oversteer)? This will influence your response.
Ease Off the Pedals: Immediately take your foot off the accelerator and, if possible, the brake. Avoid any sudden or jerky movements. Sudden braking is a major cause of skids on ice.
Steer in the Direction of the Skid: This is the most important step. It might feel counterintuitive, but steer the wheel in the same direction that the rear of your car is sliding. This helps the tires regain traction. For example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right.
Avoid Hard Braking: As mentioned earlier, avoid slamming on the brakes. If your car has Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), apply firm, steady pressure to the brake pedal and let the system work. You will feel the pedal pulsing; do not pump the brakes. If your car doesn't have ABS, gently pump the brakes to avoid locking them up.
Wait for Traction to Return: Once you've steered into the skid, gently straighten the wheel as the car regains traction. Be prepared for the car to correct sharply, and be ready to make further small adjustments.
After the Skid: Once you've regained control, proceed slowly and cautiously. Evaluate the road conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. Increase your following distance and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Important Considerations:

Understeer: When the front tires lose grip, the car doesn't turn as much as you steer. Gently reduce speed and ease off the accelerator.
Oversteer: When the rear tires lose grip, the back of the car slides out. This is where steering into the skid is crucial.
Practice: If possible, practice skid control in a safe, open area like an empty parking lot covered in snow or ice. This will help you become more familiar with how your car handles in slippery conditions and build your confidence.
Tire%20Pressure: Ensure your tires are properly inflated.
Winter%20Tires: Consider using winter tires for enhanced grip in icy conditions. They're designed with special tread patterns and rubber compounds that perform better in cold weather.