Final answer:
To prevent hydroplaning in wet conditions, reduce speed and avoid hard braking and overly aggressive steering. Stopping distances increase on wet surfaces due to reduced friction, and reaction time also adds to the overall distance needed to stop the vehicle safely.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prevent hydroplaning when raindrops are splashing on the surface of the road or when driving through a puddle, you should reduce your speed and avoid hard braking and overly aggressive steering. It is crucial to maintain control of your vehicle under wet conditions where the stopping distance is significantly increased. When the road surface is wet, it is tainted with oil and gasoline, which can lead to slippery conditions especially with just a light rain. A heavy rain can wash away some of the buildup, but the risk of hydroplaning remains if water accumulates faster than it can drain, leading to standing water on the surface.
The physics behind this involves understanding that stopping distances on wet pavement are longer than on dry pavement due to reduced friction. Reaction time also plays a significant role; from the moment the driver perceives a hazard to the initiation of braking, there is already a distance covered, furthering the total stopping distance. Thus, prudent driving behavior and an awareness of road conditions are imperative for safety.