It is easy to read about the theory of skids but a real and practical understanding of them can only be gained by booking a course.
Most drivers would say that they are more skilful and certainly safer than the average driver, but 95% of accidents are the result of driver error which stresses the need for further driver education.
Skids can be caused by trying to change speed or direction (or both) too forcibly for the road conditions, resulting in a loss of tyre grip on the road. Each skid is unique, but control may be regained by following these guidelines:
Front Wheel Skid (understeer)
When the front wheels lose their grip, the vehicle will lose some or all of its directional control. This skid can happen to a rear wheel, front wheel or four wheel drive vehicle on a bend or corner, but correction is the same. As soon as you feel understeer, decelerate or declutch* and if possible, reduce the steering to regain traction.
By reducing the amount the steering wheel is turned, the front wheels start to point in the direction the car is travelling. They start to rotate and grip and steering is recovered.
Once grip is regained, steer back on to the desired course. If the speed is excessive there may not be enough space to regain control.
*do not declutch with vehicles fitted with traction control.
This year Get a Grip with Skid Control, in preparation for inclement weather & adverse conditions.
At Drive-Tech we provide a convenient, controlled environment where our Team of experts will teach you all the techniques required to stay in control.
We have Gift Vouchers for all our courses they are valid for 18 months, and make great presents any time of the year!
We run all year round so, give the team a call 01249 783010 or email info@drivetechltd.co.uk and see what availability we have.
If you would like practical experience of how to control a front wheel skid, Get a Grip, learn new life saving driving skills the easy way… not the hard way!
How to control a Front Wheel skid
