Potholes & Debris
Navigate road surface hazards safely
Potholes and road debris are common hazards that can damage your vehicle or cause loss of control. Learning to spot and safely navigate these hazards protects both you and other road users.
Why This Matters
A sudden pothole strike can damage tires, wheels, and suspension. Worse, swerving to avoid debris without checking mirrors can cause serious accidents.
Key Actions to Take
Scan the road surface well ahead
Maintain safe distance to see road surface
If safe, straddle potholes or position wheels to avoid
Check mirrors before any avoidance maneuver
Do
- Slow down on roads with poor surfaces
- Report dangerous potholes to authorities
- Check your vehicle after hitting debris
- Give cyclists extra space on poor roads
Don't
- Swerve suddenly to avoid debris
- Brake hard over a pothole
- Drive through puddles hiding potential holes
- Follow too closely to see hazards
Pro Tips
Standing water often hides potholes - treat with caution
If you must hit a pothole, release brakes before impact
Watch vehicles ahead for sudden movements indicating hazards
Practice Your Hazard Perception
Put your knowledge into practice with our interactive hazard perception training.
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