Why are potential hazards harder to predict than real hazards?

Potential hazards are harder to predict than real hazards because they can stem from a variety of unexpected sources. This unpredictability makes it challenging for drivers to anticipate when or how these hazards might emerge. While real hazards, like a stopped vehicle or a pedestrian crossing the street, present immediate, visible dangers, potential hazards can be more subtle, such as a child playing near the road or an animal darting out from behind a bush. These factors introduce an element of uncertainty, as drivers must remain vigilant and adaptable to changing situations that could develop into hazards at any moment. In contrast, real hazards tend to be more straightforward and easier to identify and respond to promptly.