Practice question

What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid?

  1. Steer in the opposite direction of the skid
  2. Brake hard and wait for the vehicle to stop
  3. Steer in the direction you want to go
  4. Turn off the ignition quickly

Answer: C — Steer in the direction you want to go

When your vehicle starts to skid, the appropriate response is to steer in the direction you want to go. This technique helps regain control of the vehicle. In a skid, the wheels may lose traction, and by steering in the desired direction, you allow the tires to realign with the direction of travel as they gain traction again. Doing this can help prevent the vehicle from spinning out of control and can stabilize the vehicle. When skidding, braking hard can worsen the situation and increase the likelihood of losing control further. Similarly, steering in the opposite direction of the skid can create a counterproductive situation, potentially leading to a spin. Turning off the ignition quickly is also not advisable, as it can cause a loss of steering control and could lead to dangerous outcomes if the vehicle loses power. Understanding the correct reaction during a skid is crucial for maintaining control and ensuring safety while driving.

Practice more: Missouri Class E Drivers License Practice Test →