Which of the following is a type of skid?

• A. Hydroplaning
• B. Understeer
• C. Oversteer
• D. Tire fade

Answer: (A)

When a vehicle loses tire grip and slides, that slide is a skid. Hydroplaning is a type of skid that happens when a layer of water builds between the tire and the road, causing the tire to ride on top of the water rather than on the pavement. Because the tire isn’t in contact with the road, steering, braking, and accelerating control are greatly diminished.

This can occur on wet roads when enough water builds up, especially at speed, and when tire tread depth or pressure isn’t ideal. Reducing speed on wet surfaces, avoiding standing water, and keeping tires properly inflated with adequate tread help lessen the risk of hydroplaning.

Other terms describe different phenomena: understeer and oversteer refer to how a vehicle responds in corners—loss of traction at the front or rear wheels relative to steering input—not a water-induced skid. Tire fade is a loss of traction due to overheating, not a water-related skid.