ICBC British Columbia Written Exam Practice Test 2025

What is the proper way to handle a skid while driving?

1. Brake hard

2. Steer toward where you want to go

3. Steer away from the skid

4. Accelerate quickly

The correct answer is: Steer toward where you want to go

The proper way to handle a skid while driving is to steer toward where you want to go. This technique, often referred to as "steering into the skid," helps regain control of the vehicle. When you find yourself skidding, your vehicle’s rear wheels may be sliding out, and by turning in the direction you wish to go, you can help bring the wheels back in line with the front wheels. This action allows the tires to regain traction with the road surface more effectively, thus stabilizing the vehicle. Braking hard can exacerbate the skid by shifting weight forward, which can lead to more loss of control. Steering away from the skid may also increase the risk of losing control, as it does not address the underlying issue of the rear wheels slipping. Accelerating quickly in a skid is dangerous and counterproductive, as it may worsen the loss of traction and increase the likelihood of a collision. By focusing on steering toward where you want to go, you can utilize the physics of vehicle dynamics to help regain control and bring the car back onto a straight path.