An anti-skid device for use in cooperation with a vehicle wheel for positioning a traction member beneath the vehicle wheel includes a frame assembly constructed and arranged to be attached to the vehicle, a swing arm pivotally connected to the frame, and an electric, linear actuator having an extendable shaft. The anti-skid device includes a double pivot link where one end is attached to the frame assembly and the opposite end is attached to the swing arm. The linear actuator is attached to a movable pressure plate and a biasing spring is positioned between the movable pressure plate and a back plate for applying and maintaining contact pressure of the traction wheel against the vehicle wheel. In the preferred embodiment, the traction member is a length of chain that is connected to the traction wheel for positioning between the vehicle wheel and the road surface.