Skid control - tips to avoid "spin outs"

Avoiding, ending skids takes special techniques

Wet roads are bad enough when you're moving. They can be especially treacherous when it's time to stop.

Defensive drivers know that when rain or snow creates wet roadways, extra caution is needed. They'll anticipate the unexpected and slow down gradually, especially at highway intersections.

Slam on your brakes, and you'll likely be thrown into a skid. If that happens, experienced drivers will keep wheels turning and stay in control of their steering by using short, rapid jabs on the brake pedal, even with anti-lock brake systems.

Most skids are caused by accelerating quickly or braking hard, but a sudden steering movement can also make your vehicle slide. Defensive drivers will:

• Slow down well ahead of turns and curves
• Plan for lane changes and move into new lanes gradually
• Signal their intentions to other drivers

If you do go into a skid, you might consider following these techniques:

• Don't hit your brakes or over–steer
• Take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction the rear of the car is sliding
• When you feel the vehicle recover, straighten your wheels and continue on

Help is available

At Allstate, we want to not only provide the insurance coverage that helps protect your people and property, but to give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're backed by a team of Loss Control Consultants who understand your business and can help you prevent a loss before it happens.

That's why we've created the Allstate Safety Line at 800-877-6998, where Loss Control Consultants personally help small-business owners learn more about:

• Fleet and auto safety
• Accident investigations
• Self-inspection procedures
• Safety training
• Fire protection and safety
• Hazard control methods
• Safety and health rules and regulations that apply to your particular business
• Much more

Just call us anytime with your contact information and briefly describe your question or issue. If a trained Loss Control Specialist isn't immediately available, one will call you back by the end of the next business day.