Practice question

If your vehicle skids on an icy road, what should you do with your steering wheel?

  1. Turn away from the skid
  2. Hold it steady
  3. Turn in the direction of the skid
  4. Stop steering altogether

Answer: C — Turn in the direction of the skid

When your vehicle skids on an icy road, the appropriate response is to turn in the direction of the skid. This technique helps to realign the vehicle's tires with the direction they are sliding, thereby regaining control. When you turn into the skid, you are effectively allowing the rear wheels to regain traction, which helps prevent the vehicle from spinning out of control. Maintaining control of the steering wheel is crucial during a skid. Allowing the rear of the vehicle to come back in line with the front will ideally help you move back in the intended direction of travel. This response is critical in icy conditions, as it mitigates the risks associated with oversteering or understeering, which can worsen the skid.

Practice more: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Practice Test →