What is what to do when vehicle skids?

Here's information about what to do when your vehicle skids, presented in markdown format with links:

When your vehicle skids, it's crucial to react calmly and correctly to regain control. The appropriate response depends on whether you have anti-lock brakes (ABS) or not.

If you have ABS:

  • Don't Pump the Brakes: Maintain firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. The ABS system will automatically pump the brakes for you, preventing wheel lockup.
  • Steer: Steer in the direction you want the car to go. The ABS system will allow you to steer even while braking. This is the most critical aspect of recovering from a skid.
  • Don't Release the Brakes: Maintain pressure on the brakes while steering. The ABS system needs to be engaged to help you maintain control.

If you do NOT have ABS:

  • Ease off the Accelerator: Immediately take your foot off the gas pedal.
  • Clutch In (Manual Transmission): Depress the clutch pedal to disengage the engine from the wheels.
  • Steer: Steer in the direction of the skid. This means turning the steering wheel in the direction the rear of the car is sliding. This is called "steering into the skid".
  • Correct Gradually: Once you feel the car regaining traction, gently straighten the steering wheel. Avoid overcorrecting, as this can cause a skid in the opposite direction.
  • Pump the Brakes (Gently): If you need to brake, pump the brakes gently and rapidly. This helps to prevent the wheels from locking up. Avoid slamming on the brakes.

General Tips for ALL Skids:

  • Stay Calm: Panic will only make the situation worse. Focus on what you need to do.
  • Look Where You Want to Go: Fix your gaze on the path you want the car to follow. Your hands will naturally follow your eyes.
  • Avoid Sudden Movements: Smooth and gradual steering and braking inputs are essential. Jerky movements can exacerbate the skid.
  • Understand Different Skid Types: Recognize the type of skid you're experiencing (e.g., oversteer, understeer) to apply the appropriate corrective actions.

Important Topics:

  • Understanding <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/ABS%20(Anti-lock%20Braking%20System)">ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)</a>: How it works and its role in skid prevention and recovery.
  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Steering%20Into%20The%20Skid">Steering Into The Skid</a>: A fundamental technique for regaining control.
  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Oversteer%20and%20Understeer">Oversteer and Understeer</a>: Identifying and responding to different types of skids.
  • Importance of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Maintaining%20Traction">Maintaining Traction</a> : Conditions that cause this, and how to improve it with driving and proper maintenance.
  • <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Safe%20Driving%20Techniques">Safe Driving Techniques</a>: Learn the right way to avoid situations which can cause skidding.