What is the proper action to take to stop a trailer skid?

The proper action to take to stop a trailer skid is to steer into the skid. When a trailer begins to skid, it means that there is a loss of traction, and steering into the skid helps to realign the vehicle and trailer. This action allows you to regain control and prevent the trailer from swinging uncontrollably. By turning the steering wheel in the direction of the skid, the vehicle's rear end can be brought back into line with the front, stabilizing the combination vehicle.

The other options might seem plausible but do not effectively address the loss of control during a skid. For instance, releasing the service brakes can actually worsen the situation, as it removes any braking force that might help slow the vehicle down. Similarly, using only the trailer brakes is not advisable because it can lead to further imbalance and possibly exacerbate the skid. Accelerating while in a skid generally leads to a loss of control, making it a dangerous maneuver. Understanding proper skid recovery techniques is essential for safely handling combination vehicles on the road.