Citrus County Pothole Protection Tips

Potholes that pop up can force drivers to pay a steep price.

The extreme temperature swings could make this year’s “pothole season” one for the record books according to a AAA study.

AAA has seen a 12% increase in flat tire calls in January 2018 as compared to 2017, as well as an increase in pothole-related roadside assistance calls compared to years past.

The study shows that pothole damage can cost motorists hundreds, even as much as a thousand dollars in repairs.

Potholes form when moisture collects in small holes and cracks in the road surface. The moisture expands and contracts when temperatures go up and down. This breaks up the pavement and, combined with the weight of passing cars, eventually results in a pothole.

To minimize vehicle damage from potholes, AAA suggests the following:

• Inspect Tires – Tires should be properly inflated and have a healthy tread.
• Inspect Suspension – Struts, shock absorbers, and other suspension parts should be in proper working condition.
• Look ahead – Scan the road for potholes as you are driving. Being alert can mean that you have time to avoid a pothole, so it is important to limit distractions.
• Slow Down – If a pothole cannot be avoided, reduce speed safely without braking abruptly.
• Look out for Puddles – Puddles can disguise deep potholes.
• Keep a Spare Handy – A quick fix for a tire blowout can be installing a spare. However, most new cars do not come with spare tires, so be prepared.

This time of year, drivers need to be wary of all the hazards that normally come with driving, but potholes as well. If you’re driving too fast, it could be hard to slow down to avoid hitting a pothole. If you’re driving at night a pothole in a dimly lit area can be a hazard that can easily sneak up on you.

Depending on the location of the pothole and the amount of traffic in the area, the safest thing to do may be to just hit the pothole instead of trying to pull off the road or into another lane, risking a collision with another vehicle. Fixing a bent tire rim or getting a new alignment will cost you far less than the medical costs and lost time at work due to injuries from a car crash.

If you or a family member has been injured in a Citrus County auto accident caused by a poorly maintained road or a pothole, call our Citrus County Auto Accident Lawyers at Whittel & Melton about your case. Protect your rights to compensation by calling us for a free consultation at 352-726-0078 or contact us online.