Vehicle operation on wet pavements: Why is driving on a wet road surface dangerous from a highway safety standpoint?

Introduction / Context:
Wet pavement conditions degrade tyre–pavement friction, increasing stopping distances and reducing cornering capabilities. Designers account for wet-weather performance through surface texture, drainage, and geometric provisions, but drivers still face elevated risk in rain.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Pavement surface is wet (rain or water films).
• Standard tyres and typical highway speeds.
• No special anti-skid devices in use.

Concept / Approach:

Friction coefficient drops in the presence of water films, especially for smooth textures. Hydroplaning can occur at higher speeds, causing loss of contact. Even before hydroplaning, micro- and macro-texture needs to be sufficient to shed water and maintain grip; otherwise skidding and slipping risks increase. Dynamic loads in curves and abrupt steering can compound this, potentially leading to overturn for tall, high-centre-of-gravity vehicles.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

Verification / Alternative check:

Crash studies consistently show increased crash rates during wet conditions; drainage and surface texturing requirements in design standards address these risks.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Each of A, B, and C describes a real risk. Therefore the combined best choice is “All the above”.
• “None of these” contradicts widely observed wet-weather behaviour.

Common Pitfalls:

• Overconfidence in ABS/ESC systems; physics still limits friction.
• Poor tyres and worn treads dramatically worsen wet performance.

Final Answer:

All the above.