BLOG

Driving is one of the most common activities many of us do every day, but it's not without risks. Road hazards are one of the primary challenges that can lead to accidents, damage to your vehicle, or even personal injury. In this blog, we'll explore what constitutes a road hazard, how to avoid these dangers, and what to do if your vehicle is damaged by one.

 

 

 

 

 

What Are Road Hazards?

Road hazards can encompass a wide range of obstacles and dangerous conditions on the road. Some of the most common include:

Potholes: These are depressions or holes in the road surface, often caused by weathering and heavy traffic.

Debris: This could be anything from fallen tree branches to vehicle parts, rocks, or construction materials.

Weather-related Hazards: Rain, snow, ice, and fog can create slippery or low-visibility conditions. Water covering the road due to heavy rain or other causes, creating hydroplaning risks and obscuring hazards beneath as well.

Wildlife: Animals crossing the road can pose a sudden hazard.

Construction Zones: These areas often have lane shifts, loose gravel, and heavy equipment.

Roadway Irregularities: Uneven road surfaces, raised or missing manhole covers, and temporary barriers can create risks.

Other Drivers: Aggressive, distracted, or impaired drivers are also considered road hazards.

 

How to Avoid Road Hazards

While you can't always control road conditions, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk:

Stay Alert: Keep your attention on the road at all times. Avoid distractions like texting, eating, or using your phone.

Maintain a Safe Speed: Driving at a reasonable speed gives you more time to react to unexpected hazards.

Follow at a Safe Distance: Maintain a gap between your vehicle and the one in front of you to give yourself room to react.

Use Your Headlights: In low-visibility conditions, headlights can help you see and be seen.

Be Cautious in Construction Zones: Follow posted speed limits and watch for construction workers and equipment.

Watch for Signs: Pay attention to road signs indicating hazards, such as "Rough Road," "Construction Ahead," or "Wildlife Crossing."

Check Weather Conditions: Before driving, check the weather forecast and adjust your driving habits accordingly.

 

What to Do If You Encounter a Road Hazard

Even with the best precautions, you might still encounter a road hazard that causes damage to your vehicle. Here's what to do:

Pull Over Safely: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic.

Assess the Damage: Check your vehicle for visible damage, such as flat tires, bent rims, or undercarriage damage.

Call for Assistance: If your vehicle is not drivable, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck.

Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard, your vehicle, and any damage. This can be helpful for insurance claims.

File a Report: If the hazard is related to road conditions, consider reporting it to local authorities or the transportation department. This can help prevent future accidents.

Contact Your Insurance Company: If your vehicle is damaged, contact your insurance company to start the claims process.

 

Road hazards are an inevitable part of driving, ranging from potholes and debris to adverse weather conditions and reckless drivers. While these hazards can pose significant risks to your safety and your vehicle, being prepared can make all the difference. Staying alert, maintaining a safe driving speed, and paying attention to weather and road conditions can help you avoid many common hazards.

However, even the most cautious drivers can find themselves dealing with a road hazard that causes damage, particularly to tires. If you experience a road hazard that leads to a flat tire, bent rim, or other damage, the first steps are to ensure your safety, assess the damage, and get assistance if needed. Documenting the scene and contacting your insurance company can help with any claims you need to file.

In conclusion, road hazards are a reality for every driver, but with the right precautions and support, you can reduce your risk and manage the unexpected. When you buy your tires from Schierl Tire & Auto Service, our tire installation package includes road hazard coverage for those inevitable road hazards. This package provides a love them, or leave them 30 day ride guarantee, lifetime rotation and rebalance every 6,000 miles, FREE tire repair, Wheel corrosion service and more! With this coverage, you're not just getting top-notch tire installation, but also the reassurance that if something goes wrong, you're covered. This can save you money and stress if you encounter a road hazard that damages your tires.