Driver Error:
* Sudden acceleration: Especially on slippery surfaces, rapid acceleration can overwhelm the tires' grip.
* Sudden braking: Similar to acceleration, hard braking can lock the wheels, causing a loss of steering control and a skid. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) helps prevent this.
* Sudden steering: Jerky or overly aggressive steering inputs, especially at speed, can easily exceed the tire's grip limit.
* Over-steering: Turning the steering wheel too sharply, especially at higher speeds or on a slippery surface, can cause the rear end of the car to lose traction and slide.
* Under-steering: Driving into a corner too fast, causing the front wheels to lose traction and continue in a straight line rather than turning.
* Improper driving technique: Failing to adjust speed and steering for changing road conditions.
Road Conditions:
* Slippery surfaces: Rain, snow, ice, oil, loose gravel, or leaves significantly reduce tire grip.
* Uneven road surfaces: Potholes, bumps, and ruts can disrupt tire contact with the road.
Vehicle Conditions:
* Worn tires: Tires with insufficient tread depth have less grip, especially in wet or icy conditions.
* Improper tire inflation: Under-inflated or over-inflated tires affect the contact patch and reduce grip.
* Faulty brakes: Ineffective brakes can lead to longer stopping distances and increase the likelihood of a skid during braking.
* Faulty suspension: A damaged suspension system can affect tire contact with the road.
External Factors:
* Strong winds: High winds can push a car sideways, especially lighter vehicles, potentially causing a loss of control.
In short, a skid is the result of exceeding the maximum grip available between the tires and the road. Any factor that reduces that grip or increases the forces acting on the vehicle can lead to a skid.
