What should you do if your vehicle starts to skid while driving a car without antilock brakes?

When your vehicle begins to skid, especially one without antilock brakes, the appropriate action is to remove your foot from the brake and turn into the direction of the skid. This response is crucial because it helps align your vehicle's tires with the direction you want to go, allowing you to regain traction and control.

In a skid, if you continue to brake hard, you can worsen the situation by locking the wheels, which prevents steering and can lead to a complete loss of control. Turning into the skid enables the wheels to regain grip and helps you steer out of the skid effectively. This technique is often referred to as "steering into the skid," and understanding this maneuver is vital for safely navigating slippery conditions.

Other responses, while they may appear logical, can lead to further loss of control or dangerous situations. For instance, pressing harder on the brakes would likely cause the wheels to lock up, exacerbating the skid. Turning in the opposite direction of the skid may also increase the risk of losing control over the vehicle. Accelerating to regain control is counterproductive in a skid and can lead to further instability. Recognizing the correct response can significantly enhance driving safety in adverse conditions.