What is the primary risk associated with wet brakes?

The primary risk associated with wet brakes is increased stopping distance. When brakes become wet, either from rain, moisture, or flooding, the friction between the brake components and the brake pads is reduced. This diminished friction leads to a longer distance required to come to a complete stop, which can significantly increase the risk of accidents, especially in emergency situations where rapid braking is essential.

When brakes are wet, the initial response may not seem impaired, but as the driver continues to brake, they will find that the stopping power is less effective than expected. This situation necessitates more careful driving and greater awareness of stopping distances in adverse weather conditions, as the driver must compensate for this extended distance to avoid a crash.

While complete brake failure, heat buildup, and brake locking can also pose risks under specific conditions, they are not the primary concern associated with wet brakes. Wet conditions primarily alter the effectiveness of the brake's ability to slow down the vehicle, making increased stopping distance the most significant risk factor.