Driving in Canada comes with its share of seasonal challenges. Potholes can catch even the most careful of drivers off guard. As spring arrives, the freeze-thaw cycle begins to wreak havoc on roads, leaving behind potholes that can cause serious damage to your vehicle.
Whether you rent or own a condo or a house, protecting your vehicle is part of being prepared. Knowing how to steer clear of potholes (and reduce the impact if you hit one) can help avoid insurance claims and keep you safer on the road.
Let’s explore why potholes are so common in Canada, how to navigate them safely, and how your insurance policy might help if you experience damage.
Key takeaways
- Learn practical tips to avoid potholes and reduce the risk of vehicle damage during spring driving.
- Understand how to spot signs of pothole-related wear and what steps to take after a hard hit.
- Find out how your insurance policy may help with repair costs and when to contact your insurance representative.
Why potholes form, and why Canada sees so many
It all starts with water. When rain or melting snow seeps into cracks in the pavement, it freezes during colder temperatures, expands, and forces the road to break apart. Once that ice melts, the space collapses under the pressure of vehicles, forming potholes.
In cities, suburbs, and towns across Canada, this freeze-thaw pattern can repeat dozens of times over winter. Snowplows, heavy traffic, and older road materials can make the situation worse, which is why potholes typically peak in early spring.
Municipalities work hard to repair roads, but hazards can develop quickly, especially after storms or sudden warm spells. That’s why it’s important to stay alert and know how to protect your vehicle.
How to avoid potholes while driving
There’s no way to eliminate every risk, but these habits can help you avoid potholes and drive more confidently, especially when conditions are rough.
1. Look ahead and scan the road
Scan the road a few car lengths ahead to spot potholes before you hit them. Your eyes should move, tracking changes in the road surface.
Avoid driving too closely behind larger vehicles. They block your view, and you'll miss seeing hazards until it's too late. That extra space isn't just about avoiding rear-end collisions. Maintaining a safe distance as a buffer gives you more time to react.
2. Slow down in areas known for potholes
Driving too fast through a deep pothole can increase the chance of suspension damage, a tire blowout, or even a bent wheel. Reduce your speed in older neighbourhoods, intersections, or places that often flood, and be ready for uneven surfaces.
Driving carefully through areas with visible road wear is worth it, even if you're in a rush.
3. Don’t brake directly over a pothole
Hitting the brakes hard just before or while driving over a pothole can transfer more force to your suspension and tires, causing more damage. Instead, if you can’t avoid the hole, slow down beforehand and hold your steering wheel tightly to stay in control.
Avoid sudden braking. Gradual slowing gives you the best chance to protect your car.
4. Steer straight and avoid swerving
Swerving at the last second to avoid a pothole can put you into another lane or off the road. Sometimes, rolling over a pothole at a reduced speed can be safer than swerving and risking a collision.
Hold your steering wheel firmly and keep your vehicle steady.
5. Watch out for puddles
Large puddles may hide deep potholes. Even if a road looks passable, water can cover cracks and holes that would otherwise be visible. If you're unsure how deep a puddle is, slow down and pass through cautiously.
How to reduce the impact if you hit a pothole
Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, a pothole is unavoidable. These strategies can help limit vehicle damage and lower your risk of long-term issues.
Maintain proper tire pressure
Your tires are the first line of defence against potholes. Driving with underinflated tires can increase your risk of a blowout or rim damage. On the other hand, overinflation can make your ride rougher and more vulnerable to impact.
Make checking your tire pressure part of your regular routine, especially during the winter-to-spring transition. Properly inflated tires improve handling and help absorb shocks.
Keep your suspension in good condition
Your suspension system (shocks, struts, and springs) cushions the impact from uneven roads. If these components are worn or damaged, your vehicle is more susceptible to pothole damage.
Have your vehicle inspected if you notice your car bouncing excessively or dipping during stops.
Be mindful of your load
Carrying excess weight, especially in the trunk or cargo area, increases stress on your suspension and tires. Lighten your load when you can, and keep your vehicle balanced.
Signs of pothole damage to your vehicle
After hitting a pothole, it’s a good idea to inspect your vehicle or have it checked by a mechanic. Here are some obvious signs that something may be wrong:
- Your steering wheel pulls to one side
- You feel vibrations or shaking while driving
- You notice bulges, cuts, or cracks in your tires
- There’s a visible dent or bend in your wheel
- Your brakes feel less responsive or uneven
- Uneven tire wear appears over time
Even if you don’t see visible damage, problems like wheel misalignment or suspension wear can develop slowly. Heeding these signs can help prevent further damage and costly repairs later.
Understanding pothole damage and your insurance coverage
If your car suffers pothole damage, whether or not you should submit a claim depends on your insurance policy. In many cases, collision coverage is required to cover damage caused by hitting a pothole.
That coverage may help pay for repairs like:
- Bent or cracked wheels
Damaged suspension
Replacing tires
Fixing alignment issues
Remember that deductibles apply, and your eligibility for reimbursement depends on the circumstances of the incident and your coverage. Contact your insurance representative to understand your options if you're unsure whether you're covered.
While coverage can offer peace of mind, prevention is still your best defence against vehicle damage.
How and where to report potholes in Canada
Helping reduce road hazards isn’t just about protecting your own vehicle. It also helps your neighbours and community. If you see a pothole that poses a risk to drivers, it’s a good idea to report it to your local municipality.
Most cities and towns offer easy ways to report potholes online or by phone. Here are a few examples:
- Toronto: Call 311 or report it online
Montreal: Contact 311 if the pothole is potentially dangerous or report it online
Calgary: Submit a 311 service request online or by phone
Halifax: Call 311 or fill out an online form
Helping municipalities stay informed contributes to safer streets and faster repairs.
Final thoughts: Be prepared this pothole season
Canadian roads experience a lot during the winter. When spring arrives, it’s time to be alert. Knowing how to avoid potholes, recognizing signs of wear, and understanding your insurance options can help you feel more confident behind the wheel.
From keeping your tires properly inflated to driving with care in known pothole zones, prudent habits can help reduce your risk. And if the unexpected happens, your insurance representative can help you review your insurance policy and understand what’s covered.
With a smart routine and the right support, you can drive through pothole season with fewer surprises.
To learn more about how to be prepared when the unexpected happens, visit our article: What to do after a car accident for helpful tips.
