What should you do first if your vehicle starts to skid?

When your vehicle starts to skid, the first action you should take is to steer in the direction of the skid. This technique allows you to regain control of your vehicle by aligning the front wheels with the direction you want to go. If you find yourself skidding to the right, for instance, you should turn the steering wheel to the right. This action helps to shift the weight of the vehicle back to the tires that are gripping the road, enabling better traction and control.

Steering into the skid is essential because attempting to accelerate or brake hard can exacerbate the situation, potentially causing a loss of control. Rapid acceleration during a skid can worsen the instability and lead to a more severe loss of control. Similarly, braking hard may cause the wheels to lock up, which can prevent the car from steering altogether, increasing the risk of an accident. Therefore, managing the skid through appropriate steering is the most effective initial response to regain control of the vehicle.