Illinois CDL Practice Exam

What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid?

1. Brake hard immediately

2. Steer towards oncoming traffic

3. Steer in the direction you want the front to go

4. Accelerate to gain control

The correct answer is: Steer in the direction you want the front to go

When your vehicle starts to skid, the most effective response is to steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. This action helps you regain control of the vehicle and can help you avoid further loss of traction. By steering into the skid, you align the wheels for better traction and can return to a straight path. In many skidding scenarios, drivers might instinctively overcorrect or react counterproductively, such as by braking hard, which can create additional instability. Steering towards oncoming traffic would create a dangerous situation, as it increases the risk of a collision. Accelerating when skidding can exacerbate the situation, making it more difficult to regain control. Understanding the dynamics of vehicle control during a skid is essential for safe driving, especially in challenging weather conditions.