Is Your State a Pothole Nightmare? New Study Ranks Top 10
Ted Kaplun, founding partner at KaplunMarx, shares these tips for dealing with potholes:
Stay alert and scan the road ahead
Develop a habit of looking 12-15 seconds ahead of your vehicle. This gives you ample time to spot and react to potholes. Pay extra attention during and after rainy weather, as water-filled potholes can be deceptively deep. Use your car’s headlights to better illuminate the road surface, especially at dawn, dusk, or in cloudy conditions.
Maintain proper tire pressure
Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Underinflated tires are more likely to sustain damage from potholes. In colder months, tire pressure can drop by 1 PSI for every 10°F decrease in temperature. Conversely, tire pressure increases in warmer weather. Consult your vehicle’s manual for the correct tire pressure and adjust accordingly.
Slow down, but don’t brake directly over potholes
Reduce your speed in areas prone to potholes, but avoid sudden braking when approaching one. If you can’t avoid the pothole, slow down by easing off the accelerator. Just before your tire hits the pothole, release the brakes completely. This allows the suspension to extend fully, reducing the impact and potential damage.
Hold the steering wheel firmly
Grip the steering wheel at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions. This gives you the most control and allows for quick, precise movements. If you hit a pothole, resist the urge to jerk the wheel. Instead, maintain your course and gently correct your path after the impact if necessary.
Report potholes to local authorities
Many jurisdictions have dedicated pothole reporting systems. Use your city or state’s official website or mobile app to report potholes. Include specific location details, such as nearest cross streets or landmarks. Some areas even allow you to upload photos. Regular reporting by citizens can help prioritize repairs and improve road safety for everyone.
Check your vehicle after hitting a pothole
After hitting a severe pothole, find a safe place to pull over and inspect your vehicle. Check for visible tire damage, like bulges or blisters on the sidewalls. Look for bent or cracked rims. Pay attention to any new vibrations, pulling to one side, or unusual noises while driving, as these could indicate alignment issues or damage to your suspension system. If you notice any of these signs, have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Consider pothole-resistant tires
When it’s time for new tires, look for models with reinforced sidewalls and more robust construction. Some tire manufacturers offer specific pothole-resistant lines. These tires often have shorter sidewalls and stiffer construction, which can help reduce the risk of damage from impacts. While they may be more expensive initially, they could save you money in the long run by reducing pothole-related damage.
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
