What should a driver do when they realize they are skidding?

When a driver realizes they are skidding, the appropriate response is to keep steering in the direction of the skid. This technique, often referred to as "steering into the skid," helps maintain control of the vehicle. When a car begins to skid, it loses traction with the road, and the rear wheels typically slide out. By steering in the direction the front wheels need to go, the driver helps to realign the vehicle with the road, allowing for better traction and reducing the chance of a spin-out.

Maintaining control by steering appropriately is crucial during a skid. Whether the skid is due to icy or wet conditions, the right steering method can prevent further loss of control and help the driver stabilize the vehicle. Other actions, such as braking hard or accelerating, can exacerbate the situation by causing more loss of traction or leading to additional skidding. Yelling for help is not a practical response in an immediate driving situation where quick actions are necessary.