Potholes and Car Damage: How to Stay Protected This Spring

Spring’s arrival means warmer weather, fresh scenery, and more time on the road—but the new season also brings a familiar hazard: potholes. These road craters, caused by the freeze-thaw cycle of winter, seem to pop up overnight and can wreak havoc on your car. From blown tires to a misaligned suspension, pothole damage can be costly and frustrating. In this guide, we’ll explore how potholes can impact your vehicle, how to avoid them, and why having the right insurance coverage matters.

Why do potholes appear in the spring?

Potholes are a common sight in spring due to the freeze-thaw cycle, where fluctuating temperatures cause the pavement to weaken and break apart over time. Here’s how the process works: 

1. Water seeps into cracks. Rain and melting snow penetrate small cracks in the pavement.  

2. Freezing expands the pavement. As temperatures drop overnight, the water freezes and expands, pushing the pavement upward.  

3. Thawing weakens the road. As the ice melts during the day, it leaves gaps beneath the surface, weakening the pavement. 

4. Traffic pressure breaks the surface. With repeated freeze-thaw cycles and the weight of passing vehicles, the weakened pavement collapses, creating a pothole. 

Since this process continues throughout the winter, spring is when roads see the most damage. With more cars on the road and frequent temperature shifts, potholes grow larger and more hazardous. 

How potholes can damage your car 

Potholes aren’t just an inconvenience—they can cause serious damage to your car, leading to costly repairs. The impact of hitting a pothole depends on its depth, your speed, and your vehicle’s condition. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of damage: 

Does car insurance cover pothole damage?

Hitting a pothole can lead to expensive repairs, but car insurance can help—if you have the right coverage in place. In Canada, pothole-related damage is typically classified as a single-vehicle collision, meaning it falls under collision coverage or all perils coverage—both of which are optional add-ons. Here’s what you need to know:

Collision coverage 

Since potholes are considered objects, hitting one is classified as an at-fault collision under most insurance policies. This means that if you have collision coverage, your insurer can help cover the cost of repairs, including damage to your tires, wheels, suspension, and alignment. However, you’ll need to pay your deductible first, and because it’s considered an at-fault claim, it could impact your insurance premiums.

All perils coverage 

All perils coverage includes everything covered under collision and comprehensive car insurance, offering broader protection. This means that if your vehicle is damaged due to a pothole or other unexpected events, repairs may be covered under this policy. Like collision coverage, it requires a deductible payment, and an at-fault claim could still affect your rates.

Roadside assistance

If hitting a pothole leaves your car undrivable—such as a blown tire or severe wheel damage—roadside assistance can help. Some insurance policies offer optional roadside assistance plans that cover services like towing, tire changes, or battery boosts. If you frequently drive in areas prone to potholes, adding this coverage can provide peace of mind and help you get back on the road faster.

For Canadian drivers, having the right auto insurance coverage is key to protecting your vehicle from unexpected repair costs. Surex partners with top insurers across Canada to help you find the right coverage at the best rates. Connect with a local Surex advisor today to ensure your car insurance policy provides the protection you need, so you’re covered when it matters most. 

What to do if you hit a pothole 

Hitting a pothole can be an unexpected and frustrating experience, but taking the right steps can help minimize damage and ensure you have the necessary documentation if you decide to file an insurance claim. Here’s what to do: 

1. Pull over and check for visible damage: If it’s safe to do so, pull over and inspect your vehicle for immediate signs of damage. Look for a flat tire, bent rims, unusual noises, or fluid leaks from the undercarriage. 

2. Document the incident: Take clear photos of the pothole, road conditions, and any visible damage to your car. Note the location and any other relevant details, such as weather conditions or lack of road maintenance. This documentation can be useful for insurance claims or reporting the pothole. 

3. Get a vehicle inspection: Even if the damage appears minor, pothole impacts can cause alignment issues, suspension damage, or hidden tire weaknesses that could worsen over time. Have a mechanic inspect your vehicle to assess any necessary repairs. 

4. Consider filing an insurance claim: If repairs are costly and you have collision or all perils coverage, you may be eligible for insurance assistance. However, keep in mind that pothole damage is classified as an at-fault collision and will require you to pay your deductible first. 
    
5. Report the pothole to local authorities: Some municipalities may accept claims for pothole-related damage if the pothole was reported and not repaired in a timely manner. Contact your local road maintenance department or visit their website to submit a report. 

Before you file a claim: If a pothole damages your car, carefully weigh the repair costs against your deductible before filing a claim. If repairs cost less than your deductible (e.g., $500 or $1,000), filing a claim likely isn’t worth it.

Tips for avoiding pothole damage 

While potholes are a common road hazard in the spring, taking the right precautions can help you avoid costly damage to your vehicle. Here are some key strategies to keep your car safe: 

• Stay alert and scan the road ahead. Watch for cracks, dips, and potholes so you have time to react safely.  

• Watch for cars swerving. If vehicles ahead are suddenly shifting lanes or slowing down, they may be avoiding a pothole.  
   
• Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires absorb less impact, making them more prone to damage.  
   
• Reduce speed near puddles. Water can hide deep potholes, so approach cautiously.  
   
• Avoid sudden braking over potholes. Braking on impact forces your car’s weight down, increasing the risk of damage.  
   
• Stick to well-maintained roads. If possible, take routes with smoother pavement to reduce pothole encounters.  

Protect your car from pothole damage this spring  

Potholes are an unavoidable part of spring driving, but knowing how they form, how to avoid them, and what to do if you hit one can help prevent costly repairs. While careful driving reduces risk, unexpected damage can still happen. This is where the right insurance coverage makes a difference. If you need guidance, Surex can help you compare auto insurance coverage and add-ons tailored to your needs.

Let’s get you covered.  

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