Hit a Pothole? Here’s What You Should Check For

Most UK drivers have had to deal with potholes at some point in time, and with the current changes in weather, they are becoming an even bigger problem. The summer heat has made road surfaces more vulnerable and with the upcoming wetter weather potentially causing further damage, we have to be careful. So, what do you do if you hit a pothole? This article gives you some tips on what to look out for and what to do next.

9/23/20262 min read

If you ever hit a pothole, here is what you need to do.

1. Check your tyres for visible damage

The first thing to do after hitting a pothole is to carefully check the tyre that took the impact. You should look out for:

  • cuts or splits;

  • bulges in the sidewall;

  • cracking;

  • sudden loss of tyre pressure;

  • unusual damage to the tread.

These are some of the issues that can occur, and in more serious cases, the impact can even cause a tyre blowout.

2. Check if the tyre is losing pressure

If you did a first check and didn't see any visible damage, you might drive off thinking everything is fine only for the tyre pressure warning to turn on a few minutes later. This can point to a puncture or damage that isn't easily noticeable.

If you find yourself in this predicament after hitting a pothole, this could indicate a puncture or internal damage.

In this case, avoid driving further than necessary. Park in a safe space and seek assistance.

3. Take a look at the wheel

Sometimes after a hard hit, potholes can cause damage to the wheel itself. You should check the rim for anything that looks out of shape, especially:

  • a bent or buckled wheel;

  • cracks in the alloy;

  • or visible distortion around the rim.

If anything looks unusual, you must have the wheel inspected as soon as possible.

4. Pay attention to how the car feels

In some situations, the car could tell you something is wrong before you see it. If you sense any of the below, remain on alert:

  • You feel vibrations through the steering wheel;

  • The car is pulling to one side;

  • Steering feels different;

  • There are unusual noises;

  • The vehicle generally feels different or less stable when driving and making turns.

These can indicate problems with the wheel alignment, balancing or suspension components.

6. What should you do if the tyre is damaged?

If your tyre got damaged, this does not necessarily mean it needs to be replaced, but it should definitely be checked properly as soon as possible. In case you believe the vehicle cannot be driven safely, you should arrange for the tyre to be inspected at your location.

TyreTech1 can provide mobile tyre fitting and roadside assistance if you need help at your location.

📞 Call or WhatsApp: 07863 995929

7. Can you claim for pothole damage?

In some situations, you might be able to make a claim against the organisation responsible for maintaining the road.

In England, this may be your local council, National Highways, or Transport for London if the damage occurred on a London red route. GOV.UK recommends recording the location, date and time of the incident and details of the damage.

Drivers can also report potholes through GOV.UK, which directs reports to the appropriate authority.

Need Mobile Tyre Assistance?

From emergency tyre assistance and puncture repairs to replacement tyres fitted at your home, workplace or roadside location, TyreTech1 is here to help.

Call 078 6399 5929

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Contact us today and let us take care of the rest.