While navigating a slick downhill section of roadway, the rear drive axle loses traction and the back of the vehicle begins to swing outward toward the right shoulder. In what sequence must the driver perform the recovery actions to safely regain vehicle stability and directional control?
- 1Immediately release the accelerator and service brakes to allow the sliding drive wheels to regain rolling traction.
- 2Turn the steering wheel smoothly to the right in the direction the rear end of the vehicle is sliding.
- 3Countersteer back toward the left as soon as the vehicle begins to straighten out along the lane.
- 4Center the steering wheel and maintain gentle speed control once full directional tracking is reestablished.
Answer
The correct procedural order is: (1) release the accelerator and service brakes, (2) countersteer to the right in the direction of the skid, (3) turn the steering wheel back toward the left as the vehicle straightens out, and (4) center the steering wheel to maintain stabilized lane tracking.
According to standard commercial driving recovery protocols, the first mandatory step in a drive-wheel skid is to remove all throttle and brake application so the drive tires can roll and regain lateral grip. Next, the driver must countersteer by turning into the direction of the skid. Crucially, as soon as the vehicle starts to straighten, the driver must immediately turn the steering wheel back the other way to prevent a secondary skid. Finally, the steering is centered to resume safe forward travel.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Drive-Wheel Skid Recovery Sequence
Estimated Time:1m 15s