Which maneuver should you avoid when in a skid?

In the context of handling a skid, the correct maneuver to avoid is braking abruptly. When a vehicle begins to skid, it is important to maintain control and avoid making sudden movements that could worsen the situation. Abrupt braking can shift the vehicle's weight and increase the likelihood of losing traction even more, potentially leading to a loss of vehicle control. Instead, drivers should focus on managing the skid by steering gently in the direction they want the front of the car to go and avoiding any sudden inputs that could cause the vehicle to spin or slide.

The other maneuvers—steering softly, accelerating gradually, and looking ahead—are all techniques that can help regain control of the vehicle during a skid. For instance, steering softly allows for smoother adjustments to the direction of the car without overwhelming its capabilities. Accelerating gradually can help stabilize the vehicle once it starts to regain traction. Looking ahead ensures that drivers are aware of their surroundings and can make better decisions about how to navigate the skid.