How to Avoid this Costly Minnesota Spring Pitfall

It happens to us all. You're cruising down the street, and BUMP, your phone flies off its magnetic holder and your coffee sloshes around. You have found a pothole. A big one. They are everyone it seems as winter transitions to spring in Minnesota.

AAA Minnesota found "that last year one-in-ten drivers sustained vehicle damage significant enough to warrant a repair after hitting a pothole," according to a news release. The average cost of those repairs was almost $600. AAA reports $26.5 billion was spent on such repairs in 2021.

"Snow and cold are hard to ignore in Minnesota and Iowa and so are potholes," states public affairs specialist for AAA of Minnesota and Iowa Meredith Mitts. "Not being prepared for those craters in the road can result in pricey damage to your vehicle."

SUGGESTIONS TO AVOID POTHOLE DAMAGE TO YOUR VEHICLE

"Keep your eyes on the road," says AAA Minnesota-Iowa.

• "Scan the road ahead for potholes and if it's safe to do so, drive around any in your path."
• "Standing water or puddles may disguise a deep pothole."
• If you must hit a pothole, "safely reduce your speed as much as possible and avoid braking abruptly, particularly as you go over the pothole."

Check you tires

• Watch your tire's tread depth. AAA recommends you "insert a quarter into the tread groove with Washington's head upside down. If you can see the top of Washington's head, start shopping for new tires."
• Check your tire pressure at least once a month, "Do so before driving when tires have been at rest and are not hot."