“How to Drift”
Recently, we covered what traction control is and how it helps prevent slippage, but what happens if you do happen to slide or skid on a slick spot? When you start to slide, an uneasy feeling may arise, but do not panic. In this blog, sadly, we will not cover drifting but will cover how to handle the two kinds of skids.
Front-wheel Skid: This type of skid occurs when the front tires of your vehicle lose traction. Typically, this occurs when a driver enters a turn too quickly. The skid will occur and you will be making a turn at a wider radius than expected. To regain control, take your foot off of the accelerator and look where you want to go. In a moment or two, you should regain traction. Slowly accelerate and continue on your way.
Rear wheel Skid: A rear wheel skid is when the rear of your vehicle loses traction and begins to slide. This can also be called “fishtailing”. This type of skid occurs when you accelerate too fast or turn a corner and the momentum of the car does not want to turn. To correct this type of skid, ease off of the accelerator, look where you want to go, and smoothly turn the wheel into the skid. If the back end is sliding to your right turn the wheel to the right. Try and avoid oversteering toward the skid, to avoid this keep your eyes fixed on where you want to go. Do not slam on your breaks, for this will cause your wheels to lock up and negate your ability to turn.
Skids are preventable in many cases, but they are inevitable if you drive on the roads long enough. To prevent skids from happening, drive at a pace in line with the weather conditions, and properly upkeep your vehicle, especially your tires. When a skid does occur, remain calm, firmly grip the steering, release the accelerator, look where you want to go, and turn in the proper direction. Skid correction is not a skill you want to practice on the road or experience on the road for the first time. It is suggested that when you are learning to drive go to an open parking lot and try things out when it is wet or snowy.