What should you do if you encounter a pothole?

When encountering a pothole, the safest course of action is to slow down before hitting it and attempt to steer to avoid it if possible. This approach helps to minimize the potential damage to your vehicle and reduces the likelihood of losing control. Potholes can cause significant tire and suspension damage, so approaching them with caution is essential.

Slowing down gives you more time to assess the situation and react appropriately, which could help you maneuver around the hole if it's safe to do so. In many cases, swerving may not be feasible due to oncoming traffic, but by slowing down, you reduce the impact of hitting the pothole directly.

While some might think speeding up allows for a quick clearance, that increases the risk of sustaining damage and losing control. Ignoring a small pothole can also lead to problems later on, as even small holes can impact vehicle alignment and tire integrity over time. Lastly, hitting a pothole straight on may seem like a way to minimize swerving, but it could lead to more severe damage, particularly if the pothole is deep. Thus, approaching potholes with caution and the intention to slow and avoid is the best practice.