Specialist part · #11315 · 3 pts
What behaviour increases the risk of skidding on icy road surfaces?
aDriving in third gear.
bSudden speed increase.
cChanging to a lower gear.
Why?
Suddenly applying the accelerator on ice can make the driven wheels lose grip and cause a skid. The photo shows a bend covered in places with snow and slush, so acceleration should be smooth. Driving in third gear does not itself cause a skid, while a smooth downshift to a gear appropriate for the speed allows gradual slowing. An abrupt downshift can also cause a loss of grip.