After Winter Come Potholes – Time to Check the Alignment

Now the snow is beginning to recede and the freshly potholed roads are being revealed, TyreSafe is advising motorists to ensure their wheels are properly aligned. Driving over potholes can alter the vehicle’s steering and suspension geometries or damage critical components which can reduce vehicle safety or generate extra running costs. By ensuring wheels are correctly aligned, drivers can minimise the effects of any pothole damage and ensure they remain as safe as possible.

“The recent bad weather will inevitably increase the number of potholes we see on our roads which can cause a number of serious safety issues for drivers,” explains Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe. “If a car’s wheels are not correctly aligned it may pull to one side or cause vibrations in the steering wheel which can be distracting and make the vehicle difficult to control. By visiting your local garage or tyre dealer they will be able to perform some simple checks to make sure the wheels are correctly aligned, helping you to stay safe.”

According to the AA, last February’s heavy snow increased insurance claims for pothole damage by more than 250 per cent. With the current prolonged spell of snow and freezing conditions, road damage is expected to be even worse this year.