What action should a driver take if a jackknife situation occurs?

In the event of a jackknife situation, the most effective action a driver can take is to check their mirrors to identify and address the trailer skid as quickly as possible. This is essential because a jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out to the side of the towing vehicle, creating a dangerous angle. By checking the mirrors, the driver can assess the position of the trailer and gauge the extent of the skid.

Once the driver has identified the trailer's movement, they can make more informed decisions about how to regain control. This may involve gently steering the vehicle to realign it with the trailer or possibly correcting the speed by easing off the brakes, as applying brakes abruptly can worsen the skid. The emphasis is on regaining control rather than making sudden movements that could exacerbate the situation.

In contrast, actions like accelerating quickly or continuing to apply the brakes may worsen the instability of the trailer or cause the driver to lose control entirely. Additionally, pulling off the road immediately may not be a safe option if the vehicle is still in motion and further control is necessary. The focus in an emergency is to stabilize the vehicle dynamics by actively monitoring the movement and responding accordingly.