Texas CDL General Knowledge Practice Exam

What should you do if your vehicle begins to skid?

1. Accelerate quickly to regain control

2. Steer in the opposite direction of the skid

3. Take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go

4. Apply the brakes fully to stop the skid

The correct answer is: Take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go

When a vehicle begins to skid, the most effective response is to take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. This technique is known as "steering into the skid." When you release the accelerator, it helps to reduce speed, which can assist in regaining traction on the road. Steering in the direction you intend to travel helps align the wheels with the direction of motion, allowing the tires to regain grip. Maintaining control during a skid is crucial. If you were to accelerate quickly, this could worsen the skid by increasing your speed and reducing your ability to control the vehicle. Steering in the opposite direction of the skid may destabilize the vehicle further, and applying the brakes fully can lock the wheels and cause a loss of control. Thus, the strategy of taking your foot off the accelerator and steering toward your intended path is the most effective method to recover from a skid.