Even after the snow has gone take care on the roads
Even After The Snow Has Gone, Take Care On The Roads
January was a nightmare month for motorists as snow descended on the whole of the country bringing chaos to the roads. Satellite pictures of the British Isles showed the entire country painted white as pretty much all areas of the UK were blanketed in snow and ice. Now we’re gradually getting warmer the snow and ice is beginning to leave as we head towards spring.
Many motorists will be breathing a sigh of relief however the conditions on the road are still hazardous but for different reasons, potholes. Potholes are formed when the snow and ice get into cracks in the road, when water freezes it expands and so the ice can actually break up the road and creates small holes.
These potholes not only make the roads look like they’ve been mortared by the army, but they make the road uneven and can damage the cars driving on them. Potholes can make our car’s suspension and tires work harder and can create problems such as punctures, break suspension coils or alter your steering if you aren’t careful.
There isn’t much that motorists can do other than driving more carefully and slower on the worst affected roads. As tempting as it may be to swerve to avoid any potholes, you could collide with other vehicles or objects which you have failed to notice, so unless it is safe to do so, do not swerve and weave along the road to avoid potholes.
Many people will write to their local council or inform the police about particularly bad areas as some older roads can fall into disrepair after the snow has cleared. There are often a lot of compensation claims filed in light of pothole damage to motorists, so it is a big problem for the local authorities when potholes develop. A lot of roadworks start up at this time of year to repair the damage done by the snow, so you should also be aware of any delays you could experience as lane or road closures can be present on your route.
As well as driving slower on these roads you should also make sure your tires are filled to their recommended levels. Some drivers believe that lower tyre pressure can help with grip in the snow but this is a false rumour, and can actually impede your handling as well as put unnecessary strain on your wheels.
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