A
vehicle is skidding, when it moves on its own momentum, when the driver is
unable to stop or steer the vehicle, even just for a few
seconds. There are various reasons for this to occur. A wet or icy
surface is the main culprit. Skidding also happens when oil or another
slippery substance had been spilled onto the roadway. It is a frightening
experience, which calls for a cool head and skillful response.
Somebody
boasted about their driving skill: "During a recent road trip
our car skidded five times. But each time I regained control and avoided a
crash!"
Does this driver really have something to boast about? Not at
all. They should take a lesson in skid prevention, as not to get
into trouble in the first place. Good drivers
seldom need to use it. Therefore, skid control often becomes a dormant
skill, much like parallel parking.
However,
everyone makes mistakes and finds their vehicle momentarily out of
control. Let's examine the causes and responses to skidding in more
detail:
