What action should be taken if a vehicle starts to skid?

When a vehicle starts to skid, turning in the opposite direction of the skid is the appropriate action to take. This technique helps in regaining control of the vehicle. Skids often occur when a driver loses grip on the road surface, and by steering in the opposite direction, the driver can help the vehicle realign with the direction they intend to go. This action promotes a better recovery by allowing the tires to regain traction as the momentum shifts back toward the intended path.

In contrast, accelerating smoothly would exacerbate the skid and make it more difficult to regain control, as it would increase the speed of a vehicle that is not properly gripping the road. Tightening your grip on the wheel is not a constructive response; while it may provide a sense of control, it doesn't mitigate the effects of the skid or assist in recovery. Shifting into neutral can also lead to a loss of control because it disengages the engine from the wheels, which may result in further instability and difficulty in steering the vehicle effectively. Thus, the recommended response is to steer into the skid's opposite direction to help stabilize and regain control of the vehicle.