You’re driving along when suddenly—thump. You hit a pothole. Depending on the impact, that one bump could lead to costly repairs for your tires, wheels, suspension or alignment. Potholes can form for several reasons, including changing temperatures, worn pavement, poor road construction and water damage. While you can’t control the condition of the roads, you can take a few simple steps to help avoid potholes and reduce the chance of damage if you do hit one.
How to Avoid Potholes
- Keep your eyes on the road ahead. The sooner you spot a pothole; the more time you have to slow down or safely adjust your path.
- Leave enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Following too closely can make it harder to see potholes until it’s too late to react.
- Be especially careful after it rains. Puddles can hide potholes, and it’s not always easy to tell how deep they are.
- Slow down when you notice a pothole ahead. The faster you’re going, the harder the impact can be on your vehicle.
What to Do When You Can’t Avoid One
- It’s natural to want to swerve, but sudden movements can be dangerous, especially in traffic. If you can’t safely avoid the pothole, try to drive straight through it rather than hitting it at an angle. This may help reduce the chance of alignment issues or additional damage.
- Avoid braking as you go over the pothole. Braking shifts weight to the front of your vehicle, which can add extra strain to the suspension when the front wheels hit. Instead, ease off the accelerator before impact if you have time.
After You Hit a Pothole
Even when you’re careful, hitting a pothole can still happen. After the impact, pay attention to how your vehicle feels. If a warning light comes on, the car starts pulling to one side or you notice unusual vibrations, pull over somewhere safe and call for help. It’s also a good idea to note the pothole’s location and be extra cautious if you drive that route again. Many cities and counties allow drivers to report potholes online, so check your local government website for reporting options.
Potholes are an unfortunate part of the road but staying alert and knowing how to respond can help you protect your vehicle—and make your drive a little smoother.