Potholes can be a common sight on roads, especially during the spring when freezing and thawing of water beneath the pavement causes cracks to form. While they may seem harmless and unavoidable at times, it is essential to understand the potential dangers they pose and why it is crucial to avoid them whenever possible.
Tire & Wheel Damage:
One of the primary reasons you should avoid potholes is the potential damage they can cause to your tires and wheels.
Potholes with rough edges can compress the tire, leading to uneven wear and reduced lifespan. Deep potholes can scratch the rim, bend, crack the wheels, puncture your tire, and even cause blowouts.
The cost of repairing or replacing damaged tires and wheels can be significant, making it wise to steer clear of these road hazards.
Steering & Suspension:
Hitting a pothole can also have severe implications for your vehicle's suspension. The repeated jolting motion of driving over potholes can accelerate the rate of normal wear and tear on your steering and suspension components. This increased stress can lead to misalignment, broken ball joints, damaged shocks, and other costly repairs.
By avoiding potholes, you are protecting your vehicle's suspension system and saving yourself from expensive repairs down the road.
How can I avoid potholes?
To avoid potholes, there are a few steps you can take.
Step 1: Drive Slower! It may not be as fun, but driving slower allows you more time to react and avoid potholes. It also reduces the impact of hitting them at higher speeds.
Step 2: Pay Attention! Sort of no-brainer, but paying more attention to the condition of the road you are on can help you anticipate potholes and navigate around them. Leaving more room between you and other drivers gives you greater flexibility to maneuver safely if you encounter a pothole unexpectedly. Remember, in rainy or snowy conditions potholes or other road hazards are not always easy to identify.
Step 3: Be Prepared! Veering around potholes safely without abruptly changing lanes or putting other drivers at risk is extremely important. Be sure to watch your surroundings before veering over too far on the road.
Cross-traffic alert systems and blind spot monitoring systems are helpful, but don't forget to shoulder check and use your mirrors, including the rearview mirror, before moving around a pothole.
Avoiding potholes on the road is essential to preventing tire and wheel damage, and suspension issues. Taking proactive measures to steer clear of these road hazards can help you protect your vehicle, reduce the risk of costly repairs, and ensure a safer driving experience.
If you happen to hit a pothole and feel like it has caused damage to your vehicle, it is essential to get it checked promptly. Look out for new noises that were not there before or if your vehicle is pulling to the right or left. Visiting a trusted automotive service center, such as Lacombe Quick Lane, can help you assess any potential damages and perform a thorough inspection of your vehicle. Book with our knowledgeable and helpful team today.