What To Do First If You Begin to Skid: A Driving Essential

Picture this: you're driving down a slick, snowy road in beautiful Newfoundland and Labrador, feeling pretty good about your skills behind the wheel. Suddenly, your car starts to skid. Heart racing, stomach dropping… what do you do?

Let’s break this down because it’s a crucial moment that can make all the difference.

The Right Move: Steer Into the Skid

If your vehicle starts to slide, the first thing you should do is steer in the direction you want to go. Yes, you heard that right! It may sound counterintuitive at first—after all, aren’t you supposed to avoid losing control? But here’s the thing: by steering into the skid, you’re allowing the vehicle’s wheels to realign with the road. This technique is known as "steering into the skid."

When you let panic take the wheel and you veer sharply in another direction or hit the brakes too hard, you risk making the situation worse. Remember the time you tried to catch a ball but ended up bobbling it instead? It’s like that—making quick, jerky movements can send you spinning out of control.

Why Steering Into the Skid Works

So, why does this method work? It’s simple! Steering into the skid helps your tires regain traction with the road, guiding your vehicle back on course. Your car’s stability relies heavily on tire-road contact, and by aligning your wheels properly, you're facilitating a smoother path back to safety.

Imagine dancing—it’s all about balance and moving your feet in relation to your partner. Similarly, your response to a skid is about finding balance with your vehicle; you have to anticipate its moves and respond accordingly.

What Not to Do

Now, let’s talk about what to avoid in this slippery scenario:

• Brake Firmly: Hitting the brakes might seem like a good idea, but it can worsen the skid. When you slam those brakes, you risk losing even more control. Think of skidding like getting tangled in a jump rope—sudden stops will just leave you more twisted!
• Turn Sharply: Turning too sharply can throw you into a spin. It’s like trying to turn quickly while riding a bicycle; without the right balance, you're likely to tip over.
• Accelerate to Regain Control: This is a recipe for disaster! Pushing the gas during a skid may just send your vehicle into a spin, leaving you heading in the wrong direction—yikes!

Remember Safety First: Practice Makes Perfect

Before you hit the roads of Newfoundland and Labrador, it's essential to practice these techniques. Ask yourself: have you ever been in a skid? Did you know how to respond? If the answer is no, or maybe you just aren’t sure, consider enrolling in a defensive driving class. Learning and practicing these techniques in a controlled environment can boost your confidence and preparedness for any unexpected slippery situation.

And hey, it's not just about the skids. Staying informed and up-to-date on driving techniques can help make you a safer, more efficient driver overall.

Wrap-Up: Just Keep Calm and Steer On

So next time you find yourself skidding, remember this: steer into the direction you want to go. Take a deep breath, don’t panic, and guide that vehicle back on track. Practicing this method will not only keep you safer but also enhance your overall driving skills.

Keep your eyes on the road, stay aware of the conditions, and don’t let the fear of skidding stop you from enjoying every breathtaking view Newfoundland and Labrador has to offer! Drive safe, folks!