“Pothole season” is here

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — With the current cold front, there’s a chance of area potholes increasing.

As we all know, potholes are small, gaping holes on our roadways.

However, what people might now know is how much damage these small holes can do. News 12 spoke with a local expert on what drivers can do to keep themselves, and their cars, safe.

“If you do end up having to encounter a pothole … go through, and you don’t actually want to roll through the pothole. You want to slow down initially before,” said Firestone employee Kyle Young. “And as you’re about to hit the pothole, take your foot off of the brakes. That way, your suspension’s not compressed and it will actually take more of the impact from your suspension versus on the vehicle.”

Young also advises scanning the road as you drive, as well as keeping your distance from the car in front of you.

If you do hit a pothole, pay attention to see if your tire light comes on or if there are any steering wheel vibrations.

These simple tips could save you time – and hundreds of dollars in repairs.