What should a driver/operator do if their apparatus begins to skid?

When an apparatus begins to skid, the appropriate action for the driver/operator is to ease off the gas pedal and brakes while steering into the direction of the skid. This technique allows for better control of the vehicle. When skidding, the loss of traction makes it crucial to avoid sudden movements that could exacerbate the situation. By decreasing speed gradually, the driver helps to restore traction. Steering into the skid aligns the vehicle’s front wheels with the direction of travel, promoting a smoother recovery and preventing further loss of control.

Accelerating in a skid can worsen the situation by increasing speed and complicating control. Turning the wheels opposite to the skid can lead to overcorrection, potentially causing the apparatus to spin out. Firmly applying the brakes can cause the wheels to lock up, making it difficult to steer and potentially leading to a more severe skid or a roll-over scenario. Thus, easing off the gas and steering into the skid is the optimal approach to regain stability and control of the apparatus.