What is a common sign of excessive wear in escalator steps?

A common sign of excessive wear in escalator steps is visible damage or cracks on the steps. As escalator steps endure constant stress and usage, the material can degrade over time, leading to physical deformities that manifest as cracks or other visible damages. This wear can compromise both the safety and functionality of the escalator, as damaged steps may not provide a stable surface for users.

In contrast, options like increased speed, improved traction, and greater user acceptance do not directly indicate excessive wear. Increased speed might suggest a malfunction or improper adjustment rather than wear, improved traction generally would not occur as a result of wear and would be opposite of what happens, while greater user acceptance is more related to the overall performance and reliability of the escalator, rather than a sign of step wear.