Not only are potholes annoying and sometimes dangerous, they can also be costly.
According to the AAA East Central office- which includes Butler County- hitting a nasty pothole can sometimes result in more than just a flat tire. Bad potholes can lead to bent wheels or even more expensive suspension damage, which AAA estimates can run over $1000.
Potholes form when moisture collects in small holes and cracks in the road surface. This moisture then expands and contracts when the temperatures fluctuate. When combined with the weight of passing vehicles, the pavement begins to break up and cause potholes.
AAA does offer some tips to help minimize vehicle damage including:
-Make sure tires are properly inflated to act as a sort of cushion
-Look ahead and scan the road for potholes to have more time to react
-Slow down if a pothole cannot be avoided
-Beware of puddles which often disguise deep potholes
-Make sure a spare tire is ready to use if necessary