Arkansas Commercial Driver License (CDL) Practice Test

When your drive wheels skid while braking, the first action you should take is to stop braking. This allows the wheels to begin turning again, which helps to regain traction on the road. When you continue to brake while the wheels are locked up, the vehicle will remain in a skid and may slide uncontrollably. By releasing the brakes, you enable the tires to regain grip, allowing the steering control to return, and thus you can steer your vehicle back in the intended direction. It's crucial to understand that engaging the emergency brake can exacerbate the skid situation, as it could cause the rear wheels to lock, making steering difficult. Turning the wheel sharply during a skid is typically ineffective and can worsen the situation by causing a further loss of control. Activating hazard lights offers no immediate benefit in terms of regaining control over the vehicle during a skid, as the priority should be on recovering traction and stability.