This riddle describes something most people would rather avoid. It can happen quickly, sometimes because of one bad decision, but escaping it can take much more effort.
There are several playful answers people suggest, but the classic answer fits the wording best.
Answer: Trouble.
It can be very easy to get into trouble, yet getting out of it may require explanations, apologies or fixing whatever went wrong. That contrast is exactly what makes the riddle work.
If another answer came to mind, the important question is whether it fits both parts of the clue equally well.
