What Should You Do If You Hit A Pothole?

When you’re navigating an unfamiliar road or bustling city, the last thing on your mind is hitting a pothole. Unfortunately for novice drivers, it’s not unusual to experience this situation, and it can have some serious consequences that you want to avoid.

That’s what we will be exploring in this blog post – what should new drivers do if they hit a pothole? We’ll provide advice and tips on how to deal with this annoying but common problem so you can confidently stay safe on the roads.

Assess the damage to your car and the pothole – take pictures if necessary

Unfortunately, hitting a pothole can cause serious damage to your car, and it’s important to assess the extent of the damage as soon as possible. Take a close look at your vehicle and note any dents, scratches, or other signs of impact. If necessary, take pictures of the damage to record what occurred accurately.

Don’t forget to inspect the pothole as well. Taking pictures of the hole may also help document the size and depth. By taking these steps, you’ll be better equipped to address any repairs or insurance claims that may be necessary.

Report the pothole to your local city or county government

Potholes are a common problem on many roads, especially after the harsh winter weather. However, there is a solution to this problem that doesn’t involve swerving and dodging every pothole you encounter.

Reporting the pothole to your local city or county government can help improve the conditions of the roads in your area. It may seem like a small action, but it can go a long way in ensuring safety and comfort for both drivers and pedestrians alike.

So next time you spot a pothole on your regular route, take the time to report it. It’s a win for everyone!

If it’s on your property try to fill in the pothole yourself with gravel or dirt

While you aren’t allowed to attempt to fill potholes on public roads, you can fill in the holes on your own property. If you have a driveway with a large pothole, don’t worry – you can take the initiative to fill it in yourself!

Filling a pothole is actually quite simple, and all you need is some gravel or dirt (or both), a shovel, and a broom to sweep away any excess. Start by clearing the hole of any large rocks or debris before adding fill material in layers. Once you’ve packed it down, use the broom to clean up the area.

You may want to hire a professional if the pothole is deeper than a few inches. But for smaller holes, this DIY fix can be quite effective.

Check for possible alignment issues caused by the impact of the pothole

While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, the impact of hitting a pothole can cause alignment issues in your vehicle, leading to uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and even dangerous driving conditions.

It’s important to check for possible alignment issues after hitting a pothole to ensure the safe operation of your vehicle. Indicators of a possible alignment problem include steering wheel vibration, misalignment of the treads on your tires, and a vehicle pulling to one side while driving.

If you’re experiencing any of these warning signs, it’s best to contact a professional mechanic as soon as possible for an alignment check and repair if necessary.

Monitor your car for signs that tire pressure is not even after hitting a deep pothole

While you might initially breathe a sigh of relief that there seems to be no immediate damage to your car after hitting a pothole, it’s important to monitor your vehicle for signs of a tire pressure issue.

Uneven tire pressure can lead to a range of problems down the road, including a decrease in fuel efficiency, poor handling, and even the potential for a blowout. Keeping an eye out for warning signs like a shaky steering wheel or a wobbly ride can help you catch and address any issues before they become even bigger problems.

Consider filing a claim with your insurance company if you sustained considerable damages due to a pothole

If your car has sustained considerable damage from hitting a pothole, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance company. Depending on your coverage, they may even reimburse you for any repairs or deductibles necessary to fix the issue.

It’s important to note, however, that filing an insurance claim is often only applicable if you can prove negligence on the part of the government regarding pothole maintenance. Make sure to document any evidence that would support your case, such as photos of the extent of the damage or even a statement from a witness who saw you hit the pothole.

Don’t let potholes ruin your day

Hitting a pothole on the road is always something to be avoided and should be done with careful attention. However, if you do find yourself in a situation where you hit one, you should keep some key considerations in mind.

Assessing the damage, reporting the issue to your local government, and even filling in the pothole yourself are all recommended steps. Checking for alignment and tire pressure issues is essential too. Lastly, consider claiming insurance if you have sustained considerable damages due to a pothole.

Northwest Driving School encourages everyone to stay safe on the roads through attentive driving; always watch for those pesky bumps on your way!

Contact us today to book your lessons and prepare for safer roads ahead.

At Northwest, you can expect to find outstanding classes, both on campus and behind the wheel, that are engaging, fact-filled, entertaining, and geared toward success.