Potholes are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause serious damage to your car, including flat tires, bent rims, misaligned suspension, and even undercarriage damage. If you’ve ever experienced that jarring impact of hitting a deep pothole, you might immediately wonder: “Will my insurance cover the damage?”
Does Insurance Cover Pothole Damage?
The answer depends on your auto insurance policy. Specifically, collision coverage is what typically covers damage from hitting a pothole. Since the impact is considered a collision with an object (in this case, the pothole), your insurance may help pay for repairs.
However, it’s important to remember that your deductible applies. This means you’ll need to pay the deductible amount first before your insurance covers the remaining repair costs. If the cost of repairs is lower than your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim.
Steps to Take After Hitting a Pothole
If you hit a pothole, follow these steps to minimize damage and determine your next course of action:
- Pull Over and Inspect Your Car – As soon as it’s safe, check for visible damage. Look for flat tires, bent rims, leaking fluid, or strange noises coming from your vehicle.
- Take Photos of the Pothole and Damage – If possible, document the pothole, its location, and the damage to your car. This can be useful if you need to file an insurance claim or report the pothole to local authorities.
- Check Your Tire Pressure and Alignment – A pothole impact can cause slow leaks or misalignment, which may not be immediately noticeable. If your steering feels off or you notice vibrations, get your vehicle checked.
- Get a Repair Estimate – Visit a trusted mechanic or auto repair shop to assess the full extent of the damage.
- Decide Whether to File an Insurance Claim – If the repair costs exceed your deductible, it may be worth filing a claim. However, if the costs are minimal, paying out of pocket could be the better option to avoid potential increases in your insurance premiums.
- Report the Pothole – If the pothole is on a public road, consider reporting it to local authorities so it can be repaired before causing further damage to other drivers.
Preventing Pothole Damage in the Future
While you can’t control the condition of the roads, you can take steps to minimize your risk of pothole damage:
- Stay Alert & Avoid Potholes When Possible – Keep an eye on the road ahead and drive cautiously in areas known for rough pavement.
- Maintain Proper Tire Pressure – Underinflated or overinflated tires are more susceptible to damage from potholes.
- Slow Down on Rough Roads – Driving at high speeds increases the impact force when hitting a pothole, leading to greater damage.
- Get Regular Vehicle Inspections – Routine maintenance helps identify early signs of damage before they become costly repairs.
Is Your Insurance Coverage Sufficient?
Pothole damage can be frustrating and expensive, but having the right coverage in place can save you from major repair costs. Now is the perfect time to check if your policy includes collision coverage and whether your deductible is reasonable for unexpected repairs.
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