What should you do if you start to skid while driving?

When you start to skid while driving, the appropriate response is to steer into the skid and avoid slamming on the brakes. This method helps regain control of the vehicle by aligning your tires with the direction of the skid. When a vehicle skids, the rear wheels lose traction and cause the back end to slide out; steering into the skid allows the front wheels to regain grip and helps stabilize the vehicle.

Braking hard in such a situation is counterproductive because it can further upset the vehicle's balance, making it more difficult to regain control. Accelerating in a skid can also worsen the situation by shifting weight and causing additional loss of traction. Finally, performing a U-turn is not a practical or safe option during a skid, as it could lead to further loss of control and potentially cause a more severe accident. The best course of action is to maintain calm, steer gently in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go, and avoid sudden movements.