swerved

Swerved is a term used to describe a sudden and sharp change in direction, typically made by a vehicle. This action is often taken to avoid an obstacle, such as another vehicle, an animal, or debris on the road. The maneuver can be executed by drivers, cyclists, and even pedestrians. In the context of driving, a swerve can involve rapid steering input, and in some cases, braking. The effectiveness and safety of a swerve depend on various factors including the speed of the vehicle, road conditions, the driver's reaction time, and the presence of other vehicles or hazards.

The act of swerving can be involuntary or deliberate. An involuntary swerve might occur due to a sudden mechanical failure or a loss of control. A deliberate swerve, on the other hand, is a conscious decision made by the operator to alter their path. While swerving can sometimes prevent an accident, it can also lead to new dangers, such as losing control of the vehicle, skidding, or colliding with other objects or vehicles that were not initially in the path. Therefore, defensive driving techniques often emphasize maintaining a safe distance and anticipating potential hazards to minimize the need for sudden evasive maneuvers like swerving. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden change in course or direction in other contexts, such as a change in plans or a shift in opinion.