New York Driver License (DMV) Written Practice Test

When your vehicle starts to skid, the appropriate response is to steer in the direction you want to go while avoiding slamming on the brakes. This technique helps to regain control of the vehicle as skidding occurs due to a loss of traction. By steering into the skid, you can align the vehicle's wheels with the direction of travel, which can help restore grip on the road.

Slamming on the brakes can exacerbate the skid, especially on slippery surfaces, as it can lock the wheels and lead to a loss of control. Similarly, turning the steering wheel sharply does not allow for a smooth recovery and may worsen the situation by causing further instability. Gradually reducing speed using the brakes can be helpful in some scenarios, but in a skid, the key focus should be on steering effectively rather than applying the brakes abruptly. This combination of actions ensures a better chance of regaining control of the vehicle during a skid.