Potholes form when moisture collects in small holes and cracks in the road surface. As temperatures rise and fall, the moisture expands and contracts due to freezing and thawing. This breaks up the pavement and, combined with the weight of passing cars, eventually results in a pothole.

To aid motorists in protecting their vehicles from pothole damage, AAA recommends the following:

• Inspect Tires – Make sure tires are properly inflated and have enough tread. When checking tire pressures, ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker on the driver’s door jamb. To check the tread depth, insert a quarter into the tread groove with Washington’s head upside down. The tread should cover part of Washington’s head. If it doesn’t, then it’s time to start shopping for new tires.

• Inspect Suspension – Make certain struts, shock absorbers and other suspension parts are in good condition. Have the suspension inspected by a certified technician if you suspect problems.

• Look Ahead – Make a point of checking the road ahead for potholes. Before swerving to avoid a pothole, check surrounding traffic to ensure this won’t cause a collision or endanger nearby pedestrians or cyclists.

• Slow Down – If a pothole cannot be avoided, reduce speed safely being sure to check the rearview mirror before any abrupt braking.

Beware of Puddles – A puddle of water can disguise a deep pothole.

• Check Alignment – Hitting a pothole can knock the wheels out of alignment and affect the steering. Have the wheel alignment checked by a qualified technician of it pulls left or right.

• Recognize Noises/Vibrations – A hard pothole impact can dislodge wheel weights, damage a tire or wheel, and bend or even break suspension components. Have any new noises or vibrations inspected by a certified technician.