What action can lead your car to skid?

Braking abruptly can lead your car to skid because it causes a sudden shift in weight and can lock your wheels, especially on slippery surfaces. This sudden deceleration does not allow the tires to maintain their grip on the road, leading to a loss of traction. When tires lose traction, they cannot effectively channel the forces acting on the vehicle, making it difficult to control the car and potentially resulting in a skid.

Smooth acceleration, gradual turning, and slow driving typically help in maintaining traction and control, making those actions less likely to cause a skid. In contrast, abrupt braking is a risky maneuver under many driving conditions, particularly in wet or icy weather, where the chances of skidding increase significantly. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for safe driving practices, as they highlight the importance of maintaining control through careful and deliberate vehicle operation.