What type of skid occurs when brakes are applied too hard?

When the brakes are applied too hard, a braking skid occurs. This type of skid results from the tires losing traction due to excessive braking force, which causes them to lock up. When a vehicle's wheels lock during braking, they can no longer maintain their grip on the road surface, leading to a loss of control. This is particularly relevant in situations where sudden stops are necessary, and it emphasizes the importance of applying brakes smoothly and progressively to maintain traction and control.

In contrast, other types of skids involve different causes or conditions. A power skid occurs when acceleration is too aggressive for the current traction, while a cornering skid happens when a vehicle is turned too sharply for its speed, causing it to slide outwards. Directional skids involve losing traction while attempting to change direction, often caused by oversteering or understeering. Understanding these distinctions helps drivers recognize and respond to skidding situations more effectively.