How to avoid pothole related breakdowns.
There are a few steps that you can take to help reduce the risk of experiencing a pothole-related breakdown:
1 – Stay Alert.
Be on the lookout for potholes while driving.
2 – Slow Down.
Avoid driving over potholes whenever possible.
3 – Tyre Pressures.
Keep your tyres properly inflated to help absorb the shock of hitting a pothole.
4 – Check Your Tyres.
Check your tyres regularly for any damage that may have been caused.
5 – Check Components.
Consider getting your suspension and steering components checked regularly to ensure that they are in good condition.
6 – Check For Damage.
If you do hit a pothole and think that your car may have sustained damage, have it checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.
What to do if you sustain vehicle damage from a pothole:
1 – Find A Safe Location To Stop.
If you are in a safe location, such as on the shoulder of a road or in a car park, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your presence. If you are in a potentially dangerous location, such as on a busy road or highway, try to get to a safer location as quickly and safely as possible.
2 – Assess Damage.
Once you are in a safe location, assess the damage to your vehicle. If you think it is safe to do so, try to determine what caused the breakdown. If you think it may have been caused by a pothole, make a note of the location and any other relevant details.
3 – Check Vehicle for Solutions.
If there is tyre damage check the boot of your vehicle to see if there is a spare wheel or a can of tyre foam that can be applied to get you on your way. Learn how to change to a spare wheel.
4 – Roadside Assistance.
If your vehicle is not equipped with any solutions or has damage compromising drivability and safety, then call your breakdown cover for roadside assistance.
5 – Claim Compensation.
You may be able to claim compensation from the local council or the highway authority responsible for maintaining the road.