Watch for Potholes as You Drive

Hitting a pothole with your vehicle can be frustrating, dangerous, and costly. Here are some examples of damage that potholes can cause and tips for how to avoid them.

What damage can potholes cause to my vehicle?

• Steering Problems. The jolt from hitting a pothole can knock the steering out of alignment, causing the vehicle to pull in one direction. The steering wheel may start to vibrate, and the vehicle could sway while turning, making it difficult to control the vehicle.
• Tire Issues. An immediate concern could be a blown-out tire. Potholes can also dent the rims, cause inconsistent wear and tear, lessen fuel economy, and weaken tires over time, which could lead to an eventual blow out.
• Down Under Troubles. Striking a pothole can scrape the undercarriage of your vehicle, which houses hoses for fluids and the exhaust system. Bottoming out can wreck the suspension, shocks, and struts as well.

How can I avoid potholes?

• Beware when driving in areas with a lot of water or precipitation, particularly during winter and spring. Snow, ice, or water may be covering a pothole.
• Notice what vehicles are doing in front of you. Traffic that slows down or changes lanes quickly may be dealing with potholes.
• Slow down when you encounter a pothole. If you cannot safely go around it, roll through it. Refrain from swerving, hard-braking, or speeding through it.

It can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars to repair vehicle damage caused by potholes. Your auto insurance policy may help pay for the damage. Contact your insurance agent if you are unsure about your coverage. Follow these tips to help keep you, your passengers, and others safe on the road.