Losing control of your vehicle, resulting in a skid or slide, can be alarming and dangerous. Skids typically occur when a driver brakes, accelerates too hard, or turns too sharply. Adverse weather conditions like fog, sleet, freezing rain, snow, and wet roads further increase the risk. Understanding how to handle and prevent skids is crucial for safe driving.

Types of Skids

Front-Wheel Skids:

Cause: Hard braking or acceleration, especially in front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Recovery:

• Release the brake or accelerator.
• De-clutch (manual) or shift to neutral (automatic).
• Wait for the front wheels to regain traction.
• Steer gently in the desired direction before re-engaging the clutch or shifting to drive.

Rear-Wheel Skid:

Cause: The back end slides out, known as fishtailing.

Recovery:

• Take your foot off the brake or accelerator.
• De-clutch (manual) or shift to neutral (automatic).
• Steer in the direction you want to go.
• The counter-steer is just before the rear wheels stop skidding.
• Accelerate smoothly to a safe speed.

Preventing Skids

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicles ahead to allow ample reaction time.
• Avoid Simultaneous Actions: Do not brake and turn at the same time.
• Control Your Speed: Avoid speeding, especially in adverse weather conditions.
• Brake Gradually: Apply brakes smoothly and avoid slamming on them.
• Steer Smoothly: Avoid sudden and sharp turns.
• Tire Maintenance: Ensure your tires have sufficient tread and proper air pressure.

Understanding and applying these principles of skid control can help prevent accidents and promote safer driving practices in Ontario. Stay alert, drive cautiously, and be prepared to react appropriately to maintain control of your vehicle.