How should a driver handle a situation where their tires lose traction on ice?

When a driver finds themselves in a situation where their tires lose traction on ice, steering gently and avoiding sudden movements is the most effective strategy to regain control of the vehicle. This approach allows for smoother adjustments, enabling the driver to maintain better control of the steering and prevent the vehicle from skidding further.

On icy surfaces, making abrupt movements can lead to loss of control. Gentle steering helps to guide the vehicle in the desired direction without inducing over-correction, which can worsen the loss of traction. It also allows time for the tires to regain some grip as the vehicle stabilizes.

In contrast, braking hard can cause the vehicle to skid and drift uncontrollably. Pumping the brakes quickly may also reduce control and could result in erratic vehicle behavior. Similarly, turning the steering wheel sharply is likely to exacerbate the situation and can cause the vehicle to spin out. Therefore, maintaining calm and using gentle steering is essential for safely navigating through icy conditions.