20% Chance of Hitting a Pothole Hard Enough to Need Repair
About 1 in 5 U.S. drivers hit a pothole hard enough to require a repair, according to AAA's Pothole Damage Survey, the organization's most recent national pothole study, covering 2022.
$406 Repair on Average
Pothole damage averaged $406 per repair in 2022, with affected drivers reporting two repairs each. A year earlier, AAA put total pothole damage to vehicles at $26.5 billion.
How Common Is Pothole Damage
Pothole damage is common, especially in cold, wet states where the freeze-thaw cycle breaks up pavement. Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington rank among the worst for potholes.
In 2022, 44 million U.S. drivers paid to repair pothole damage, up from 28 million the year before, a 57% increase. AAA fielded 1.9 million tire-related roadside calls that winter and spring, which accounted for 12% of all its service calls that season.
What Does a Pothole Damage?
Potholes can damage tires, wheels, steering components, and suspension parts. A hard impact can bend a wheel, damage a tire, knock the vehicle out of alignment, or damage suspension components. At higher speeds, the impact can be especially severe and can damage the oil pan and other undercarriage components.
What to Do After Hitting a Pothole
After hitting a pothole, check your tires and steering, and watch for signs of damage such as vibrations, leaks, or tire bulges.
Check the Tires for Bulges
A bubble or lump on the sidewall means internal damage, and the tire should be replaced because it can fail suddenly. Check the pressure with a gauge or watch for a tire-pressure warning light, since an impact can also cause air loss.
Check the Steering for Pull or Drift
If the vehicle pulls to one side or the steering wheel sits crooked, the pothole may have knocked the alignment out or damaged a suspension component.
Check for Vibration
New shaking or humming through the steering wheel, seat, or floor can mean tire, wheel, or suspension damage. Have it inspected if the vibration continues.
Check for Leaks
Look underneath the vehicle for fresh fluid after a hard impact. A severe pothole can crack the oil pan or other underbody components.
Have the Vehicle Inspected
Pothole damage doesn't always show up right away. If your vehicle pulls, vibrates, leaks fluid, or develops a tire bulge, have it inspected. Driving on damaged parts makes the repair more expensive.
Document the Damage
Take photos of the pothole, its location, and the damage to your vehicle. Keep repair estimates and receipts if you plan to seek reimbursement. AAA notes that pothole claim requirements vary by state, city, and road agency.
Check Your Insurance
Check with your insurance company to see whether your policy covers pothole damage and whether filing a claim makes sense based on your coverage and deductible. Coverage varies by policy, so contact your insurer before assuming the damage is covered.
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