Fishtail

Fishtail refers to a vehicle handling condition where the rear end of a car swings from side to side, resembling the movement of a fish's tail.

This occurs when the rear tires lose traction, causing the back of the vehicle to slide unpredictably. Common causes include accelerating too hard, driving on slippery surfaces like rain or gravel, or taking corners at excessive speeds. Drivers can feel the car becoming unstable as the rear end starts to slide out.

To correct a fishtail, drivers must steer into the direction of the skid (counter-steering) while gently easing off the throttle. In some motorsports like rally racing or drifting, skilled drivers intentionally induce controlled fishtailing to navigate certain corners more effectively.