Potholes: The Sneaky Road Hazards That Can Really Leave a Dent in Your Day
Auto Driving

Potholes: The Sneaky Road Hazards That Can Really Leave a Dent in Your Day

Lily DiGregorio
Lily DiGregorio,Staff Copywriter
Lily DiGregorio
Staff copywriter specializing in auto and home insurance for The Hartford.
03/05/2026 3 min read
Let’s break down why potholes are such a big deal - how they form, ways to avoid them and what to do when you end up hitting one.
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Key Takeaways

  • Potholes can cause costly vehicle damage, but knowing what causes potholes and how they form helps you spot risk sooner.
  • Avoiding potholes whenever possible (and knowing what to do when you can’t) keeps your car safer and your wallet happier.
  • Advocating for repairs in your community and having the right insurance coverage gives you long-term protection and peace of mind.
If you’ve ever felt the kerthunk of a pothole and immediately wondered what part of your car just surrendered, you’re not alone. These sneaky street craters seem to pop up everywhere. And just when you think you’re cruising smoothly, your morning coffee becomes a casualty.
 
So, buckle up, because we’re going to fill in everything you need to know.
 

Car Damage Frequency and Risks Behind the Rattle

Potholes can have a huge impact on your car. In the U.S., drivers collectively pay billions every year for pothole-related repairs. According to AAA’s research, 1 in 10 drivers suffered vehicle damage severe enough to need repair in a single year, with the average repair costing around $600 – and that’s just from a single pothole hit!
 
Across the country, potholes can cause tire blowouts (or the pop no one wants to hear), bent wheels, suspension damage and alignment issues. In serious cases, these seemingly minor nuisances can cause a total loss of control.

The Science Behind Potholes: When and How They Form

So… What causes potholes? Think of potholes as the road’s version of a “freeze‑frame” gone wrong. The culprits are usually:
 
  • Water: Moisture slips through existing small cracks in the pavement. These cracks are typically caused by everyday wear and tear from vehicles and weather.
  • Freeze‑Thaw Cycles: When temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands, pushing the pavement upward. When it thaws, it contracts, leaving empty space below the surface.
  • Traffic Stress: Cars then drive over those weakened spots, causing the unsupported top layer to cave in. The result? A pothole… or several, especially in the Northeast where winter plays wreaks havoc on pavement.

Are Some Areas More Prone Than Others?

Absolutely. Roads in colder climates experience more freeze-thaw cycles, making them prime pothole real estate. Urban roads also get hit harder due to heavy traffic loads. (Potholes tend to show up when things get too crowded.)
potholes

How To Best Avoid Potholes on the Road

Dodging potholes shouldn’t feel like a high stakes video game. With these quick tips, you can steer clear.

Slow down.

Higher speed = harder impact.

Avoid puddles.

They can hide deep potholes.

Maintain safe following distance.

That way, you can spot hazards early.

Stay centered in your lane.

Worn areas tend to be along wheel paths.
Sometimes the safest way to avoid a pothole is to simply slow down and stay alert. Your car (and coffee) will thank you.
 

What To Do If You Can’t Avoid a Pothole

Even with the best intentions, sometimes a pothole jumps out faster than your reflexes. If you hit one:
 
  • Don’t slam the brakes mid-impact: Braking transfers weight to the front wheels, increasing damage risk.
  • Check your tires and wheels: Look for bulges, cuts or low pressure.
  • Pay attention to vibrations or pulling: You may have knocked your alignment out of whack.
  • Document the damage: Some cities accept pothole damage claims (and it doesn’t hurt to try).
  • Get repairs promptly: Small issues can grow into bigger ones fast.
If you suspect damage, listen for new noises. Cars are talkative, especially injured ones.

How To Advocate for Road Repairs Where You Live

Improving your local roads may feel like trying to patch a sinking ship, but many municipalities genuinely want residents to report problems.
 
To champion safer and smoother streets, consider reporting potholes via your town or city’s website, 311 system or local DOT app. Be sure to include photos and precise location pins, which is a feature typically included in the site (you won’t need to know the coordinates offhand).  
 
Harness collective pavement power by encouraging neighbors to report the same pothole or attending local town or transportation meetings where road repairs are discussed. Some towns and cities even have a pothole reimbursement program, which could be worth asking about.
 
The more noise and reports a specific pothole gets, the more likely it is to get fixed. Think of it as giving that crater a performance review. (With enough feedback, it won’t pass.)
 

Stay Protected With the Right Auto Insurance Coverage

While you can swerve, slow and stay alert, potholes still have a way of sneaking up on even the most careful drivers. Having the right car insurance coverage ensures that when life throws road craters your way, you have the peace of mind to keep moving forward. With enough protection, you can focus on safely enjoying the drive instead of worrying about every bump in the road.
street with potholes

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