What is the purpose of counter steering in emergency vehicle operations?

Counter steering is a critical technique used in emergency vehicle operations to prevent oversteering, which can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle. When a driver applies too much steering input while navigating a turn or during evasive maneuvers, the rear wheels may lose traction, causing the vehicle to skid or spin out. By counter steering—turning the wheel in the opposite direction of the skid—the driver can help regain traction and stabilize the vehicle. This technique is essential in maintaining control during high-stress situations, where quick and precise responses are necessary to avoid accidents or obstacles.

Other options, such as accelerating quickly or improving fuel efficiency, do not relate to the specific necessity of maintaining vehicle control in critical driving scenarios. While increased maneuverability is beneficial, it does not directly address the immediate need to prevent oversteering.