Last night I did just what the title says. Going down a 4 lane divided hwy at the speed limit of 45 with cruise control on. The road was wet from earlier rain. This big possum darted out at the precise distance in which I hadn't any time to hit the brakes so I swerved. I know, I know, I've always heard not to turn but hit the animal but my instincts took over.
I was in control even though the rear end broke traction. I countersteered just right but then the cruise control took over and kept speeding the car up again. Slide after slide -- one way then the other getting worse. I didn't realize it was the cruise control causing it. I kept thinking gee, I oughta be slowing down soon! Finally spun around hit the curb and went right over it into wet grass and a road sign.
Car towed to a towing co yard for now. Thank goodness I have my scooter for a back up vehicle.
My lesson learned is this: I'll never use cruise control in wet conditions again! I would have been fine if it hadn't been on. If I'd been on a two lane road with traffic coming at me it could have really been terrible. As it was, there was nobody else on my side of the road.