What is a common cause of skidding with combination vehicles?

Sudden braking is a common cause of skidding with combination vehicles due to several factors related to their size and weight distribution. When a combination vehicle, which typically consists of a tractor and one or more trailers, brakes suddenly, the weight of the entire unit shifts forward. This shift can lead to a loss of traction, particularly if the road conditions are slick or if the tires are not adequately maintained.

Additionally, combination vehicles have a longer stopping distance compared to single-unit vehicles. Therefore, when the driver applies the brakes abruptly, the force can overwhelm the tires' grip on the road surface, especially if the vehicle is traveling at high speeds or on wet or icy roads. This loss of traction can cause the trailer to swing out, resulting in a skid.

Key factors like tire pressure, proper gear selection, and driving in reverse can contribute to handling issues but do not have the same immediate and dramatic impact on skidding as sudden braking does.