What usually causes a locked wheel skid?

A locked wheel skid typically occurs when excessive braking causes the wheels to stop turning while the vehicle is still moving, resulting in a loss of traction. This situation is most commonly caused by braking too hard at high speeds. When the brakes are applied with too much force, especially when traveling at higher speeds, the wheels can lock up, leading to a skid. During this skid, the driver has less control over the vehicle, as the tires can't grip the road effectively.

In contrast, accelerating too quickly can lead to tire spin, particularly in rear-wheel-drive vehicles, but it doesn't usually create a locked wheel skid. Sharp turns at high speeds might lead to loss of control or sliding, but that scenario is distinct from a locked wheel skid, which is primarily a result of braking behavior. Neglecting to use seat belts, while extremely dangerous, does not contribute to the mechanical dynamics that lead to a locked wheel skid. Understanding this distinction is significant for safe driving practices, as recognizing the causes of skids can help drivers take corrective actions to maintain control of their vehicle.