What is the preferred action to take when correcting a skid?

When correcting a skid, the preferred action is to slow down to regain control. This approach is crucial because reducing speed helps to decrease the centrifugal force acting on the vehicle, allowing for better traction and stability on the road. When a vehicle skids, it often means that the tires have lost grip on the surface, and applying brakes or accelerating can make the situation worse by further destabilizing the vehicle.

By slowing down, the driver can determine the direction of the skid and steer the vehicle accordingly, which often involves turning into the direction of the skid to regain traction. This strategic maneuvering helps to reestablish control over the vehicle and prevent a potential spin-out or collision.

The other options present less effective measures. For instance, speeding up can worsen the skid by causing the rear wheels to lose even more traction. Changing lanes quickly might lead to loss of control or collision with another vehicle. Turning off the engine would not help in regaining control and could potentially complicate the situation, especially in terms of steering and braking. Thus, reducing speed is a fundamental and effective method to correct a skid safely.