What action is most effective in maintaining control of a heavy truck on a slippery surface?

Steering smoothly is the most effective action for maintaining control of a heavy truck on a slippery surface because it helps prevent loss of traction. When driving on slippery surfaces, such as ice or wet roads, abrupt movements can cause the truck to skid or slide. Smooth steering minimizes the risk of over-correcting or making sharp turns, which can lead to losing control.

Proper steering techniques involve gradual and gentle movements, allowing the weight and momentum of the heavy truck to remain balanced. Additionally, steering smoothly enables the driver to better react to any changes in the road conditions while maintaining stability. This approach is critical not only for the safety of the driver but also for other road users, as it allows for better predictability and control during the driving experience.

In contrast, actions like accelerating quickly or braking hard can exacerbate the slippery conditions and may lead to skidding or jackknifing of the trailer. Using cruise control is not advisable on slippery surfaces since it can hinder the driver’s ability to react quickly and appropriately to sudden changes in traction.