Entry Level Driver Training Skid Control and Recovery 1 Flashcards

When a tractor-trailer begins to jackknife, what is the FIRST action a driver should take?

Answer: Release the brakes and then reapply them gently

Releasing the brakes removes the wheel lockup that caused the skid, allowing the tires to regain traction. Gently reapplying brakes gives the driver control without re-locking the wheels. Steering into or against the skid before regaining traction is ineffective and dangerous.

Which road surface condition is MOST likely to cause a vehicle skid with little warning?

Answer: Black ice

Black ice is nearly invisible and provides almost no traction, making skids occur suddenly and without the visual cues drivers rely on for warning. Other slippery surfaces like packed snow are more visible and may allow some traction adjustment in advance.

What is an 'understeer skid' and which wheels does it primarily involve?

Answer: A skid where the front wheels lose traction and the vehicle continues straight instead of turning

An understeer skid occurs when the front (steering) wheels lose traction, causing the vehicle to plow straight ahead despite the driver's steering input. This is the opposite of oversteer, where the rear loses traction. Front wheel lockup during braking on a curve is a common cause.

When driving a CMV on a slippery surface, how should a driver adjust braking technique to reduce the risk of a skid?

Answer: Apply brakes early and gradually with light, steady pressure

Braking early and gradually allows weight to transfer smoothly and keeps brake heat manageable, reducing the chance of wheel lockup. Firm continuous pressure can lock wheels on slippery surfaces, while rapid downshifting can cause rear wheel lockup from sudden deceleration.

What role does speed play in a vehicle's ability to recover from a skid?

Answer: Lower speed means less centrifugal force, making recovery easier

At lower speeds, centrifugal force pushing the vehicle off its path is reduced, giving the driver more time and physical margin to correct steering and braking. Higher speeds amplify skid forces and shrink the time window for successful recovery.

During a rear-wheel braking skid in a straight line, the driver should steer:

Answer: Straight ahead, making no steering corrections until brakes are released

In a rear-wheel braking skid on a straight road, the correct action is to release the brakes to restore traction while keeping the steering wheel straight. Turning the wheel before traction is restored can cause the vehicle to spin or veer sharply once the wheels grip again.