Practice question

What is the best way to prevent skidding?

  1. Avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and abrupt braking
  2. Drive at a higher speed
  3. Use cruise control
  4. Always have your headlights on

Answer: A — Avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and abrupt braking

The best way to prevent skidding is to avoid sudden movements of the steering wheel and abrupt braking. When driving on slippery surfaces, such as wet or icy roads, making sharp turns or suddenly applying the brakes can cause your tires to lose traction, leading to a skid. Gentle handling of the steering wheel and smooth, gradual braking helps maintain traction and control of the vehicle. Driving at a higher speed, using cruise control, or relying solely on headlights does not contribute to skid prevention. Higher speeds reduce the time available for responding to conditions and can increase the likelihood of losing control. Cruise control can also be dangerous on slippery roads, as it can lead to oversteering or not adjusting speed promptly when conditions change. Having headlights on is essential for visibility but does not influence traction or handling characteristics that are crucial for preventing skids.

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