Spring brings pothole season to UK roads. Learn how to spot them, minimise damage, and know when your tyres need replacing after a pothole strike.
After a harsh winter, UK roads are riddled with potholes. The freeze-thaw cycle breaks up road surfaces, creating hazards that can cause serious damage to your tyres, wheels, and suspension. Hull and East Yorkshire roads are no exception — here's how to stay safe during pothole season.
Signs of Pothole Damage
- Bulges or blisters on the tyre sidewall
- Steering wheel vibration or pulling to one side
- Visible cuts or cracks in the tyre rubber
- Loss of tyre pressure (slow puncture)
- Unusual noise when driving
- Scuffed or bent alloy wheels
How to Minimise Pothole Damage
- Keep your tyres properly inflated — underinflated tyres are more vulnerable
- Reduce speed on roads with poor surfaces
- Leave plenty of distance to the car ahead so you can see hazards
- If you can't avoid a pothole, brake before it — not while driving through it
- Grip the steering wheel firmly to maintain control
- After a strike, check your tyres as soon as it's safe to do so
When to Get Your Tyres Checked
Sidewall bulges are particularly dangerous — they indicate internal structural damage and the tyre could fail at any time. Never drive on a tyre with a sidewall bulge.
If you've hit a pothole and notice any of the symptoms above, pop into New Tyre Empire in Hull for a free inspection. We'll give you honest advice on whether a repair or replacement is needed.
