Road conditionsMedium risk
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 tyres, 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
Important warning
Never swerve suddenly to avoid debris without checking mirrors first. It is often safer to drive over small debris than to cause an accident avoiding it.
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