Final answer:
If your vehicle is skidding sideways, you should steer in the direction of the skid without applying the brakes or gas. Overcorrecting or sudden movements should be avoided to regain traction and control.
Explanation:
If your vehicle is skidding sideways, it is essential to remain calm and take the correct actions to regain control. While your instincts may tell you to apply the brakes immediately, this can often make the situation worse, potentially leading to a loss of control or a spin. Instead, you should turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid. This means if your rear is sliding to the right, you should steer to the right.
It is important not to overcorrect or make sudden movements, as this can exacerbate the skid. Do not apply the gas as trying to accelerate may cause more loss of traction. The goal is to realign your tires with the direction of your travel to regain traction and control. Once the vehicle begins to stabilize, you can gently apply the brakes if necessary. Practice and understanding of your specific vehicle's dynamics can also help in skid recovery.
Learning about the effects of centrifugal force and the relationship between static and kinetic friction can help drivers understand why these steps are important in maintaining control of their vehicle during a skid.