Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Exam

What is the definition of "countersteering"?

1. Turning the steering wheel in the same direction as the skid

2. Turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction to regain control

3. Applying brakes sharply to stop the vehicle

4. Accelerating to gain traction on the road

The correct answer is: Turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction to regain control

Countersteering is defined as turning the steering wheel in the opposite direction of a skid to help regain control of the vehicle. When a vehicle begins to skid—whether due to oversteering, slippery conditions, or sharp turns—countersteering involves reacting promptly by steering back into the direction of the skid. This action helps to stabilize the vehicle, realigning its trajectory with the road and enabling a smoother recovery from the skid. In this context, it's important to understand that proper countersteering is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle and avoiding accidents or further loss of control. The other options involve reactions that do not effectively address the issue of skidding. For instance, steering in the same direction as the skid would exacerbate the loss of control rather than mitigate it. Similarly, sharply applying brakes can lead to additional skidding or hydroplaning, and accelerating in such situations can also worsen loss of traction. Thus, countersteering is the most effective technique to regain control during a skid.