If you’ve been driving for a while, chances are you’ve run over a pothole. So you know how startling and annoying it is to suddenly hit a hole in the ground! Not only is it irritating but swerving to avoid a pothole or hitting one that knocks your vehicle off course can also be a serious safety hazard.
Did you know that, over time, potholes cause significant vehicle damage?
Potholes cause tire damage.
The tires are the first to make contact with the pothole – and the only part that makes direct contact. Hitting a pothole head-on can cause the tread to separate, the sidewalls to bulge, and may even cause a flat tire when driving at high speeds. Potholes have hard, jagged edges that compress against the tire on impact, slicing through the rubber and breaking the tire’s belts. After hitting a pothole, pay close attention to your tires for a few days to spot signs of damage as soon as possible.
Potholes can damage the vehicle’s body.
Lower vehicles and sports cars can experience serious body damage after hitting a deep pothole. After tire damage, this is the most noticeable type of damage a pothole can cause. Paint damage and dents on the bumpers are common after driving over the jagged edges of large potholes.
Potholes damage the suspension.
Your vehicle’s suspension provides a smooth and quiet ride. Hitting big potholes can cause misalignment, broken ball joints, and damaged shocks and struts. If you notice any unusual vibrations or sounds after hitting a large pothole, take it to a mechanic and have it checked out.
Potholes can damage the exhaust.
A deep pothole that causes your vehicle to bottom out can damage the exhaust system or oil pan. See a mechanic if you notice loud noises or loss of power after hitting a deep pothole.
Potholes can also cause accidents.
Hitting a pothole can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle. It’s usually a temporary loss of control, but even a few seconds can cause a collision when traveling at high speeds. Motorcyclists are statistically more likely to have an accident after hitting a pothole in the road.
Asphalt Repair and Maintenance in Central Texas
Routine repair and maintenance can help prevent pothole damage to vehicles. Although many potholes are on public roads, they can also form on roads and parking lots under private ownership.
We love helping our neighbors in College Station, Waco, Brenham, Bryan, Temple, and surrounding areas improve our community! At Premium Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating, we offer a wide range of asphalt services, including asphalt repair and maintenance. Contact us for a free estimate.
Read More: Commercial Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating Services
