How can you avoid skidding and jackknifing?

Reducing your speed before entering a curve is a critical practice for maintaining control of a truck and preventing skidding or jackknifing. When you approach a curve at a high speed, the dynamics of your vehicle change significantly, increasing the risk of losing traction. Slowing down allows you to navigate the curve more safely, as it reduces the forces acting on the truck's tires, promoting better grip on the road surface.

By decreasing your speed before making a turn, you give yourself the best chance to maintain control throughout the maneuver. This is especially important for larger vehicles, such as trucks, which can have a higher center of gravity and a longer stopping distance compared to standard passenger vehicles.

Maintaining a consistent speed throughout your approach to a curve may seem safe, but if that speed is too high, it can lead to a loss of control. Similarly, accelerating before entering a curve or oversteering can create dangerous situations that increase the likelihood of skidding or jackknifing, particularly on slick or uneven road surfaces. Hence, reducing your speed before entering a curve is the most effective way to enhance vehicle stability and safety.