Spring has arrived and with that so have potholes on many roads, streets and pathways. Potholes are created when water seeps into cracks in the pavement and then freezes and thaws. Given Ottawa’s winters – potholes are inevitable, but is swerving to avoid a pothole safe?
Aside from the risks of a tire blow-out, rim or suspension damage to a vehicle, as motorists attempt to maneuver around potholes, they put the safety and wellbeing of pedestrians and cyclists at risk. Motorists can help keep our roads safe during pothole season with these tips:
- If you see a pothole, call 3-1-1 or email 311@ottawa.ca and note the street/location and direction of the lane that it is in.
- Avoid driving distracted.
- Don’t speed.
- Be wary of puddles.
- Always maintain the proper air pressure in your tires.
- Clean your headlights.
- Optimize your visibility.
- Don’t tailgate.
- When approaching a pothole, slow down and avoid swerving if possible.
- Always consider the risks of potholes to cyclists and motorcyclists.
For more information on potholes and road safety read our latest blog post.