How to Deal with the Pothole Ridden Roads

GRANDVILLE, Mich.,––The weather has been fluctuating between warm and cold lately, which can break open some serious potholes in the road! We've also experiences some flooding around the Grandville area due to recent heavy rains, which can also cause major problems on the road. As a driver, it's not your duty to fix the roads, but you still need to use them. So, how can you avoid pothole damage? And if you happen to hit a pothole, how do you take care of the damage? We've got a few tips on how to deal with the pothole ridden roads in West Michigan that'll help you get through the season!

1. Keep your tires properly inflated

This tip is a standard and should be followed year-round. The manufacturer of your vehicle predetermines the correct inflation level, or PSI, for each tire. You can find this information in your owner's manual or on the sticker on the inside of your driver's door. Make sure to check your inflation level every month or when the weather drastically changes. Did you know that by keeping your tires properly inflated your car can achieve better gas mileage?

2. Be on the lookout for potholes 

If you're a Michigan driver, you likely know to be on the lookout, but this tip is worth mentioning. Make sure to have your headlights on and make sure your windshield is clear so you can spot any upcoming bumps or potholes. Sometimes potholes can be disguised under a puddle, or might have loose gravel around it. You can always pay attention to the action of the drivers in front of you for tips on where a pothole might be. 

3. Dodge potholes if you can 

Simply put, don't hit a pothole if you can safely avoid it! When the roads are wet or slippery with snow, be careful when you're quickly dodging a pothole. Also be aware of the traffic around you. It doesn't feel good to hit a pothole, but it'll feel worse to hit another car. The best way to be prepared for spotting and dodging a pothole is to drive at a safe distance behind the car in front of you and take it easy.

4. If you have to hit a pothole, know how to handle it 

If there's traffic around or it's just simply unsafe to avoid an upcoming pothole, know how to handle one. The best way to drive over a pothole is to slow down before hitting it and letting up on the brakes as you hit it. This will allow for your suspension to fully absorb the impact. Some also think that speeding up to minimally hit the pothole is the best plan of action, but there's no evidence to fully support either method.

5. Pull over and check for damage if it was a bad hit 

Depending on your vehicle's suspension, the pothole you hit may sound really awful, or you may barely notice the hit. If the pothole looked really deep or if you cringed hitting the pothole and are worried about damage, safely pull over to take a look at your car. Look at your wheel and tire for obvious damage like sidewall bulges in your tire, a deflated or deflating tire, or a damaged rim or wheel. If you see any damage, don't continue to drive on it! Get a tow or put your spare tire on.

6. Take pictures if you see any damage 

If you see any damage to your tire or wheel, take a few photos. This can help if you plan to submit a claim to your insurance company. Many times these claims aren't covered, but if you have collision insurance or significant damage beyond the tire or wheel, you might have a chance to have your repair costs covered. Keep in mind your deductible when you go to submit a claim.

7. Schedule an appointment at RiverTown Honda for repair 

If you have tire or wheel damage and need help with the repair, RiverTown Honda is happy to help! We carry a wide selection of tires, fit for every make and model, and we'll do our best to get you a tire or tire(s) that match your current set. While we don't handle collision repair, we can assist with tire and wheel problems, as well as routine tire maintenance that'll help keep your tires and your car in great condition. Schedule your next appointment online.


If you've fallen victim to a pothole, we sincerely apologize for the trouble, but are here to help! We hope these tips on how to deal with the pothole ridden roads help you avoid tire and wheel damage this season. The team at RiverTown Honda, Michigan's #1 Honda Dealership, is factory certified and can provide routine maintenance services for any make and model . It's our goal to provide you the best dealership experience of your life regardless what type or service you visit us for!

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

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