Loss of Control

Let us review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems—brakes, steering, and acceleration—do not have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked.

In any emergency, do not give up.

Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.

Skidding

In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving those conditions. But skids are always possible.

The three types of skids correspond to the vehicle's three control systems. In the braking skid, the wheels are not rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force.

And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.

If the vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, the vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs.

Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel, or other material is on the road. For safety, slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance is longer and vehicle control more limited.

While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You might not realize the surface is slippery until the vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues—such as enough water, ice, or packed snow on the road to make a mirrored surface—and slow down when you have any doubt.

Remember: Antilock brakes help avoid only the braking skid.

    See also:

    Engine Coolant Heater
    The engine coolant heater can provide easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up in cold weather conditions at or below 0°F (−18°C). Vehicles with an engine coolant he ...

    Fuel Gage
    The fuel gage shows about how much fuel is in the tank. An arrow on the fuel gage indicates the side of the vehicle the fuel door is on. The gage works only when the ignition is on. When the i ...

    Warning Lights, Gages, andIndicators
    This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it become ...