If your vehicle begins to skid, what is the appropriate action to take?

When your vehicle begins to skid, the appropriate action is to steer in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming the brakes. This technique, often referred to as "steering into the skid," allows you to regain control of the vehicle. When skidding, the tires lose grip on the road, and turning the steering wheel in the direction you wish to travel helps to realign the wheels with the road surface. This action can help redirect the vehicle and reduce the chances of spinning out or further losing control.

In contrast, braking sharply during a skid can exacerbate the loss of control, as it can cause the wheels to lock and decrease traction, making it even harder to steer effectively. Turning the wheel sharply in the opposite direction can also confuse the vehicle's handling and lead to a more severe skid. Switching off the engine can disrupt the vehicle's handling and is unnecessary; maintaining control through steering is the priority. Therefore, steering in the direction you want to go is the most effective method for managing a skid and regaining control of your vehicle.