When experiencing a skid, which action is crucial for regaining control?

When experiencing a skid, the key to regaining control of the vehicle is to turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go. This action works because it helps align the front wheels with the path of travel, allowing the tires to regain traction and stabilize the vehicle. It's essential to respond smoothly and calmly, steering into the skid to counteract the loss of control. This method encourages the vehicle to correct itself rather than exacerbate the skid.

Accelerating, braking, or engaging the emergency brake can all exacerbate the situation. Accelerating can lead to a loss of traction, while braking can cause the wheels to lock up, reducing control even further. Engaging the emergency brake can lead to loss of control as well, so it's important to focus on proper steering techniques first.