Losing control of your car and spinning out can be a terrifying experience.  A spinout can occur for many reasons, from hitting black ice to hydroplaning.  By staying calm and taking prompt action, you can stay in control of your car and avoid a serious collision.  Next, we discuss how to react if your car begins to spin out.  If a collision does occur, a Portland car accident attorney may be able to assist you with your case.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Spinning Risk

Several measures can reduce the risk of your car spinning out to begin with.  To start with, regular tire maintenance is key.  Make sure that all four tires have adequate tread depth and are inflated to the recommended pressure of your vehicle’s make and model.  Tires that are underinflated or worn may have decreased traction, making it more likely that you will lose control while driving.  You should also adjust your speed according to the current weather and road conditions.  If you are driving in a storm or on icy roads, for example, it may not be safe to proceed at the posted speed limit.  Driving at a slower speed gives you more control of your vehicle, especially on slippery surfaces.

Before you ever need to experience driving in bad weather, take time to understand how your vehicle normally handles.  Knowing how your car reacts in specific scenarios can help you proactively avoid the risk of a skid or spin.  Smooth acceleration, steering, and braking will go a long way towards keeping you in control.  Whenever possible, avoid jerky movements that can upset the car’s balance.  You should also practice defensive driving and anticipate potential hazards that could lead to a loss of control.

What Should You Do if You Begin to Spin Out?

Although it’s easier said than done, do your best to stay calm if your car enters a spin.  Panicking removes your ability to rationally respond to the situation.  Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands to keep the car pointing in the direction you’re traveling, even if it feels counterintuitive.  Slamming on the brakes can lock the wheels and make the spin worse, so ease off the accelerator to gradually slow down.

Regaining Control and Stability

To regain control of your vehicle, determine the direction of the spin, then steer the wheel in that same direction.  If the car is spinning to the right, you will turn the wheel to the right as well.  This may seem counterintuitive, but doing so actually helps you regain traction and control of the vehicle.  As you come out of the spin, begin to gently counter-steer in the opposite direction to straighten the wheel out.

If your car has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), you may apply gentle pressure to the brakes, since doing so will not cause your wheels to lock.  You may feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal, which means the system is working properly to keep your steering ability intact.  If your car doesn’t have ABS, you should focus on steering techniques to regain control before applying the brakes.  Otherwise, your brakes may lock up and cause you to lose all control of your car.

Once you’ve regained control, keep driving at a steady pace and do not make sudden movements.  The car may still be slightly unstable, so focus on steering smoothly and accelerating gently.

Post-Spin Safety Checks

After regaining control, you need to take control of the situation.  Check yourself and your passengers for obvious injuries.  If you can pull over to a safe location away from traffic, do so.  You should immediately inspect your brakes and tires for any visible damage.  Listen for any unusual noises that might indicate additional things wrong with your car.  As soon as you detect any damage or concerns, have your car inspected by a professional mechanic.

Keeping in Control During a Spinout

By staying calm and reacting appropriately to the situation, you can increase your chances of successfully regaining control of your car.  Preventive measures like proper tire maintenance and adjusting your speed for conditions will also help you stay in control behind the wheel.  Always prioritize safe driving practices and be prepared to act if your car begins to enter a spin.