What can cause increased risk on wet roads?

Increased risk on wet roads primarily stems from decreased traction. When the road is wet, the contact between vehicle tires and the road surface is compromised, which can lead to a reduction in grip. This decreased traction can result in longer stopping distances, a higher likelihood of skidding, and difficulties in maintaining control during sharp turns.

On wet surfaces, the accumulation of water can create a layer between the tires and the road, often leading to hydroplaning, where tires lose contact with the road entirely. Understanding this concept is crucial for drivers, as it emphasizes the necessity of adjusting speed and following distances in wet conditions to mitigate these risks. Features like anti-lock brakes and traction control can aid in handling, but they cannot completely eliminate the fundamental issue of reduced grip on wet surfaces.