The Impacts of Potholes on Vehicles: A Serious Concern

If you've spent a considerable amount of time driving, it's almost certain that you've encountered a pothole. The sudden jolt of hitting an unexpected pit in the road can be both startling and exasperating! Besides being a nuisance, swerving to dodge a pothole or being jolted off your path by one can pose a significant risk to your safety.

Did you realize that prolonged exposure to potholes can cause substantial damage to your vehicle?

Potholes and their effect on tires.

‍The tires are the vehicle's first point of contact with a pothole – and the only part that makes direct contact. A head-on collision with a pothole can lead to tread separation, sidewall bulging, and even a blown tire when traveling at high velocities. Potholes, with their sharp, rugged edges, exert intense pressure on the tire upon impact, piercing through the rubber and damaging the tire’s internal structure. Monitor your tires closely for a few days after hitting a pothole to detect any signs of damage promptly.

The impact of potholes on the vehicle's body.

‍Lower-set vehicles and sports cars can sustain severe body damage from hitting a deep pothole. This is the most visible type of damage a pothole can inflict, second only to tire damage. Large potholes with jagged edges can cause paint damage and dents on the bumpers.

Potholes and suspension damage.

‍The suspension system of your vehicle ensures a quiet and comfortable ride. Striking large potholes can lead to misalignment, damaged ball joints, and ruined shocks and struts. If you observe any strange noises or vibrations after encountering a substantial pothole, it's wise to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic.

Potholes may cause exhaust damage.

‍When your vehicle bottoms out due to a deep pothole, it can harm the exhaust system or the oil pan. If you notice loud noises or a drop in power after hitting a deep pothole, consult with a mechanic.

Potholes can trigger accidents.

‍A pothole can cause a driver to momentarily lose control of the vehicle. While it's usually a brief loss of control, it can still lead to an accident when driving at high speeds. Statistically, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of accidents after striking a pothole.

Asphalt Repair and Maintenance in the Central Texas Region

‍Regular repair and maintenance can mitigate the damage potholes inflict on vehicles. While many potholes are found on public roads, they can also appear on privately owned roads and parking lots.

At Premium Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating, we are dedicated to improving our community in College Station, Waco, Brenham, Bryan, Temple, and the surrounding areas. We provide a variety of asphalt services, including asphalt repair and maintenance. Get in touch with us for a free estimate.

If you're ready to take action and schedule maintenance for your asphalt surfaces, we invite you to contact our asphalt company. Our team of experienced professionals can provide you with high-quality maintenance and repairs that will keep your asphalt surfaces looking their best for years to come. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.