What does the term 'lost control' refer to in traffic incidents?

The term 'lost control' in the context of traffic incidents specifically refers to a situation where a driver experiences difficulty maintaining the vehicle's steering, leading to an inability to manage the vehicle's direction effectively. This loss of control can result from various factors, such as driver error, adverse weather conditions, or sudden obstacles in the roadway. When a driver cannot steer properly, they may veer off course, swerve, or collide with other vehicles or objects. This emphasizes the critical importance of vehicle handling and the driver's ability to maintain control, especially in dynamic driving environments.

While factors like high speeds, vehicle malfunctions, or rough road conditions can contribute to a loss of control, they do not directly define what losing control specifically entails. The essence of the term focuses on the driver's ability to steer the vehicle effectively, highlighting why maintaining control is vital for safe driving practices.