What should you do if your commercial vehicle begins to skid?

When a commercial vehicle begins to skid, the appropriate response is to steer in the direction of the skid. This technique is often referred to as "steering into the skid." By doing so, the driver aligns the front wheels of the vehicle with the direction it is sliding, which helps to regain control and stability. This action allows the vehicle to naturally correct its path and reduce the chances of spinning out or rolling over.

The physical principle at play here involves the relationship between the vehicle's momentum and the direction of the wheels. When you steer into the skid, you are counteracting the unwanted movement that causes the skid, which can help the tires regain traction with the road surface.

In contrast, accelerating out of the skid could lead to a loss of control, as it might increase the speed at which the vehicle is sliding. Similarly, braking hard could lock the wheels or further disrupt traction, making the situation worse. Turning off the engine does not address the immediate need for control and could lead to additional risks, such as losing power steering or braking assistance. Therefore, the best course of action is to steer into the direction of the skid to help regain control of the vehicle safely.