Philadelphia Drivers License Practice Test

What is the most common mistake people make when they skid?

1. Pumping the brakes gently

2. Turning the steering wheel sharply

3. Hitting the brake too hard

4. Accelerating

The correct answer is: Hitting the brake too hard

When a driver skids, the most common mistake is hitting the brake too hard. In such a situation, the vehicle’s wheels may lock up, especially if the driver is using conventional brakes instead of anti-lock brakes (ABS). When the wheels lock, the driver loses steering control, making it difficult to recover from the skid. By firmly pressing the brakes, the car's tires lose traction on the slippery surface, leading to a longer stopping distance and the potential for the vehicle to slide uncontrollably. Proper response in a skid typically involves easing off the throttle and carefully steering in the direction the driver wants the front of the vehicle to go, rather than applying the brakes hard. Other responses, while they can also relate to skidding, do not represent the typical error that drivers frequently make under these conditions. For instance, pumping the brakes gently can be useful in certain scenarios, especially when dealing with ice, as it helps maintain traction. Similarly, turning the steering wheel sharply can lead to loss of control, but it’s less about a critical error and more about the driver’s instinct in reaction to the skid. Accelerating during a skid can also worsen the loss of control, but it is not as widespread a behavior as slamming the