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Friday, 19 August 2011 16:16 |
Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week he gives motorists advice on avoiding the risks associated with potholes.
Thirty per cent of respondents to a recent IAM poll reported that they had experienced damage to their car caused by hitting a pothole, and a further 16 per cent had seen or been involved in an accident due to one.
- Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front so that you can see the road surface before you drive or ride on it.
- If you do hit a pothole accidentally, make a point of checking your tyres once you’ve stopped. Check the inner as well as the outer tyre wall, which may have been damaged as a result.
- Avoid suddenly pulling out to avoid a hole – you might discover that there is a motorcyclist trying to get past you, or encounter an oncoming vehicle.
- Motorcyclists and cyclists need to look well ahead and change direction early so they have time to deal with the holes, and so that their movements don’t cause surprise to other road users.
- Potholes tend to reappear in the same place again as previous repairs fail – remember where you saw one and expect it to be there again.
- Be extra vigilant on roads with lots of lorries and also around bus stops. Extra pressure is put on the road surface wherever heavy vehicles stop, start or turn.
Elstow said: “As well as worrying about yourself and your vehicle, drivers should spare a thought for cyclists and motorcyclists who may be trying to get past a pothole, and give them a wide berth. They are entitled to a wobble and would appreciate not having a motorist attempting to overtake just as they avoid a hole in the road.”
Article source: IAM Press Office
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