Which hazard is commonly encountered when driving in wet conditions?

When driving in wet conditions, one of the primary hazards is reduced traction and increased stopping distance. Water can create a film of moisture between the tires and the road surface, leading to a decrease in the grip that tires have. This reduced traction makes it more challenging to control the vehicle, especially during turns and sudden maneuvers.

Additionally, stopping distances are affected because the water on the road reduces the friction that helps the brakes slow down the vehicle effectively. Drivers may find that they need to start braking much earlier than they would on dry pavement to safely come to a stop, which is crucial for maintaining safety on the road.

While reduced visibility is indeed a concern in wet conditions, it is not the primary hazard that leads to difficulty in vehicle control and stopping effectively. Increased acceleration is typically not a problem associated with wet conditions; instead, drivers may need to exercise caution to avoid losing control. Mechanical failure can happen under various circumstances but is not as directly related to wet road conditions as the issue of traction and stopping distance.