What happens during a skid?

During a skid, the wheels of a vehicle lose traction, which often leads to them locking and not turning while the vehicle is still in motion. This occurs when excessive braking or acceleration causes the wheels to slide over the surface of the road rather than rolling. When the wheels are locked, the driver has limited control over the vehicle's direction, making it difficult to steer effectively and potentially resulting in a loss of control.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for drivers, as it highlights the importance of maintaining proper speed and control, especially in slippery conditions where skids are more likely to occur. Other scenarios listed, such as wheels continuing to rotate without traction or engaging brakes effectively, do not accurately describe the mechanics involved in a skid. These points emphasize how critical it is for drivers to recognize the signs of skidding and to employ techniques like steering into a skid to regain control.