You’re driving down the street at high speed and suddenly hear a “thud.” The car shakes a little, but keeps going. “It’s okay,” you say. But a few hours later, your tire starts to go a little flat, the steering wheel shakes slightly, or the brakes start to act a little strangely. These are classic consequences of hitting a pothole.
What should you do in such a situation?
Here are some practical tips based on a sequence.
1. Check immediately: Stop and observe
If it’s safe to do so, stop and inspect the car. Look for:
Tires: Are there any cracks, bulges, or low pressure?
Wheels: Are there any bends or cracks?
Steering wheel: Is there any vibration when driving?
Brakes: Is there a change in noise or deceleration?
If you notice damage, replace the spare tire or drive slowly to the nearest service station.
2. Pay attention to your car, not your feelings
Many drivers get nervous after hitting a pothole, thinking, "I was driving well, now look at the road..." But that's not the point - it's how the car reacted that needs to be analyzed.
If you feel that the steering wheel has lost its "smoothness" or there are strange changes in the steering, then the suspension or wheel axle may have been hit.
3. Go to the service: "Maybe it will pass" is a mistake
Many drivers think that "if something happens, it will be noticeable." But some pothole damage manifests itself slowly, and in the end it leads to significant costs.
Therefore:
Check tire pressure Check balancing and alignment Have your shock absorbers, brakes, and axles checked by a professional
These short checks can save you millions in costs later.
4. Prevention: Prevention is the best strategy
Keep your distance, the car in front of you hides the road conditions. Keep your headlights clean when driving at night. Regularly check your tire pressure, under-inflated tires are more susceptible to potholes.
Conclusion Potholes will always happen on the road, especially on ours. Although we cannot change this, we can control our reaction. If you get into a pothole, take immediate practical measures without ignoring it, you will extend the life of your car and protect yourself from unnecessary expenses.
If you buy new tires from us, take advantage of the free diagnostic options at ASKO service centers. Always think of your safety first. To learn more about ASKO, fill out the form below and our operators will contact you.