What is a skid in driving terms?

A skid in driving terms refers to a situation where the vehicle loses traction between its tires and the road surface. This loss of grip can occur in various conditions, such as wet or icy roads, and can lead to a lack of control over the vehicle’s direction. When a skid happens, drivers may find that their steering input does not produce the expected response from the vehicle, making it challenging to regain control.

Understanding the dynamics of traction is crucial for safe driving. Factors such as speed, tire condition, and road surface can significantly influence the likelihood of a skid. In contrast, the other options reflect different driving phenomena but do not accurately define a skid. For instance, an unexpected increase in speed typically relates to engine issues or throttle control, sharp turns are a maneuver rather than a loss of traction, and applying brakes too softly can lead to inadequate stopping power, not a loss of tire grip. Therefore, recognizing that a skid specifically involves lost grip between the tires and the road highlights the critical nature of maintaining traction for effective vehicle control.