In wet driving conditions, what is the recommended action for braking?

In wet driving conditions, being gentle with braking is crucial to maintaining control of the vehicle. Gentle braking allows for a gradual reduction in speed without the risk of skidding or losing traction, which is particularly important on slippery surfaces. This technique gives the tires the opportunity to maintain contact with the road, helping to prevent hydroplaning, a condition where the tires lose traction and begin to ride on top of the water instead of the road.

In contrast, testing grip by braking suddenly can lead to loss of control and increases the risk of skidding. Using emergency brakes is typically reserved for critical situations and could be unsafe in wet conditions as it might cause a rapid deceleration that could lead to instability. Choosing not to use brakes at all is not practical in most scenarios, as vehicles still need to be slowed down safely and controlled even in adverse conditions. Thus, a gentle approach to braking is the most effective and safest method in wet driving conditions.