Final answer:
Loss of traction can occur when driving over icy or wet roads, and tires designed for such conditions help create more friction for better traction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Loss of traction on the road can occur for several reasons. Driving over icy surfaces can significantly reduce traction because the coefficient of friction between the tires and ice is very low. However, using tires designed for icy conditions can help create more friction and therefore more traction. Another example where enhanced friction is desirable is when driving in the rain; using tires with good tread patterns that displace water effectively can prevent hydroplaning and maintain better contact with the road surface.
Radial friction is necessary during cornering, and without it, cars can veer off in a straight line due to Newton's first law.
Another situation where traction loss can happen is during cornering, where the radial friction provides the centripetal force necessary for turning. If this friction is nearly nonexistent, as on ice, the car will continue in a straight line off the road due to Newton's first law, contrary to the common misconception of a curved off-road path. Therefore, adequate tire friction is crucial for safety, particularly during adverse driving conditions such as ice, rain, or when executing turns at speed.