What should we do with an out of control car?

Updated Oct 08, 2018 | Same topic: Let's Drive Smart!

Tips that help drivers control an out of control car for safety reasons.

An out of control car can be destructive and deadly to the driver and other motorists. These tips will help the driver deal with any cay that has breached the safety threshold.

I. Factors that lead to an out of control car

Cars are exceedingly safe and chances of it skidding or spinning out of control is a million to one! This small percentage of chance is when disaster can strike, and once the point of no return happens, there’s no turning back. This article is all about slim percentage with best tips when the car is out of control in the worst-case scenario. Driving is a skill and knowing how to pull out of a spin or an accident is essential.

an out of control car

Cars are exceedingly safe and chances of it skidding or spinning out of control is a million to one

Recognizing the causes can help drivers in preventing such a dire situation and avoid it. Two main reasons are human and mechanical causes which can be avoided or just happens. Driving has two components, which is the driver and a roadworthy car to start with. Both must be in a tip-top condition, so a safe driving environment is achieved. If something is amiss with either one, then expect disaster to follow.

Philkotse.com has just told you some factors that cause a car to lose control, if they are avoided at all costs then nothing will happen. Cars losing control can be right, but once the point of no return is reached, then it all comes down to luck and a survivable car! In a nutshell, the point of no return is when the car can’t recover any more. Another problem is physics has gone awry, despite all safety features kicking in to control the car.

II. Driving conditions that should be avoided to prevent disastrous results!

Before any catastrophic accident leads to disaster, looking out and avoiding these condition is important. One condition that can’t be controlled are road conditions in extreme weather, that can’t be avoided at times.

1. Distracted driving - Human error

Causes of this condition are not paying attention to the car's instruments and aids, not keeping eyes on the road. It will not end nicely while using gadgets or devices while driving, like taking selfies, answering calls without handsfree, and texting because a collision can occur. Best to keep eyes on the road nowhere else!

distracted driver

Causes of this condition are not paying attention to the car's instruments and aids, not keeping eyes on the road

2. Excessive driver exhaustion - Human error

When drivers doze on the wheel, it can lead to an accident but safety features like Collision Mitigation help. This feature will try to warn by sound or by shaking the steering wheel, but it all fails emergency breaking is triggered. One problem is that not all cars have this feature installed, only in select premium models.

excessive driver exhaustion

Excessive driver exhaustion is a human error​

3. Loss of traction - Environmental factor

Road conditions are governed by the elements, and at times there will be wetness, loose gravel, and soil that will lessen traction on tires. Cars losing traction would be sliding, skidding, and unsafe braking distance that could end with bad results.

4. Driving under the influence - Human error

This the worst offence because alcohol will impair judgment, and could harm more than the driver. Drinking socially should have a designated driver or take a cab home, instead of driving intoxicated. This is more advisable and will keep driver and car intact!

5. Bad maintenance and Defective parts - Mechanical error

In principle, all the safety on the road and mechanical features should be A1 all the time. If any electronic or mechanical problem happens, then controlling stability loss and the car becomes unstable.

car maintenance issue

If any electronic or mechanical problem happens, then controlling stability loss and the car becomes unstable

This is included as one of the best tips when the car is out of control to avoid car crashes and accidents.

III. What should we do with an out of control car?

This part is important and one of the best tips when the car gets out of control; which should do if the car can still recover, and get stable again. When all control is lost when the airbags deploy and a crash-proof main compartment, with seatbelts is the last option to keep occupants unharmed.

Step #1. Don’t panic and keep a presence of mind. Blanking out or passing out will not enable the driver to take countermeasures, in regaining control.

Step #2. Hold on the steering wheel and never let go! Keep a steely grip and wait for the right timing to move the steering wheel and regain control.

Step #3. Eyes wide open and be alert to what's is happening.

Step #4. Kick into neutral so the car will free-wheel without any opposing force against it! If the forces on the wheels are unequal, it might spin out or turn turtle.

Step #5. Regaining traction is not easy, but it can be done! From an erratic path to straightening out the vehicle, it needs coolness and presence of mind to do it. Focusing on what needs to be done, until traction is regained!

Step #6. When the car is righted; then get away to a safe area with few cars and hazards. Stop the car and check for damage, but keep a safe distance to avoid vehicles that may lose control too.

How to React to a Skid

Fear should not disable any relevant decision making in worst case scenarios, a firm grip and an alert mind is the best tool.

IV. Advanced driving techniques to regain control of any car

Most experienced drivers will know these techniques as the best tips when car is out of control in any given condition.

1. Engine brake (never use the handbrake unless it’s a full-blown emergency)

Brakes fail because of leaks in the brake fluid line or worn out brake pads. It will only work with a manual transmission only, take note! To engage the engine brake, just downshift to lower gear but not too low. Feel out the speed and downshift sequentially or damage the differential gears. Keep at it, till the car slows down sufficiently.

engine braking

To engage the engine brake, just downshift to lower gear but not too low

2. Sudden acceleration

If sudden acceleration happens just turn the engine off, but never take keys out of the ignition or steering will be locked! If the accelerator does not go up, just force it up and work the brake pedal.

3. Steering while in a spinout or skid

If the car is losing traction on any surface that means it has become unstable. Feel where the spinning is happening and turn the wheel in that direction. Do this to control the vehicle, and regain stability before catastrophic results.

car acceleration

If sudden acceleration happens just turn the engine off, but never take keys out of the ignition

Not all of them can be learned easily, but having an idea how to go about these situations is an advantage!

V. An out of control car: Wrapping up!

Modern cars are precise and have modern features that help the driver keep them under control. But, that unknown one per cent can be dangerous, if not armed to deal with. Go through all these best tips when the car gets out of control, and have an assurance that it can be dealt with! These proactive measures and knowledge gives anyone edge and survive such an event.

Norjan Ismail Abbas

Norjan Ismail Abbas

Author

Norjan enjoys writing about various topics, and car is among them. Don't ever ask him which his most favorite car is since he has none. He believes each car is beautiful in its own way.

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