What should be the first action taken when a motor vehicle starts to skid?

When a motor vehicle starts to skid, the first action to take is to remove your foot from the accelerator and steer in the direction of the skid. This is important because it helps regain control of the vehicle. When skidding, the tires lose traction, and steering in the direction of the skid allows the wheels to regain grip on the road and helps realign the vehicle with the intended path.

If you were to turn the steering wheel sharply, it could exacerbate the skid and lead to a loss of control. Braking immediately can further decrease traction, increasing the risk of spinning out or sliding. Accelerating in a skid may seem counterintuitive, as it can worsen the loss of control. Therefore, the correct approach is to take your foot off the accelerator and steer into the skid, allowing for a smoother recovery. This technique is fundamental in safe driving practices, especially in adverse weather conditions.