Damaged roads in Canada: how to protect your tires from potholes

Damaged road with potholes in spring in Canada

With the arrival of spring, roads across Canada often look like a battlefield. After months of freezing, thawing, snow and road salt, asphalt starts to give way, revealing countless potholes. Often hidden under water or slush, these holes are far from harmless and can quickly cause damage to your vehicle if you are not paying close attention.

Here are four practical tips to help limit the damage and protect your vehicle on deteriorated roads.

1. Slow Down Before the Impact

Speed remains the biggest aggravating factor when road surfaces are damaged. According to safe driving principles highlighted by transportation authorities, it is not the drop into the hole that causes the most damage, but the sudden exit.

A pothole hit at low speed may sometimes go unnoticed.
The same impact at 70 km/h can lead to costly repairs.
Braking once you are already in the pothole is useless — by then, it is simply too late.
Slowing down in advance, especially on secondary or poorly lit roads, remains one of the most effective ways to reduce damage.

2. Be Extra Cautious on Wet or Slushy Roads

A water-filled pothole is nearly impossible to spot and can be much deeper than it appears.

Adjust your speed to match road conditions.
Avoid unnecessary maneuvers on slippery surfaces.
Cross puddles slowly rather than driving through them at full speed.
This simple habit can mean the difference between an intact tire and a bent wheel.

3. Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Vehicle tires on wet road maintaining a safe following distance

Maintaining a safe following distance becomes even more critical on wet or icy roads. As traction decreases, reaction time increases and tires struggle to absorb impacts. It is recommended to leave at least eight to ten seconds or more between your vehicle and the one ahead.

More space improves your visibility of road defects ahead.
It allows you to anticipate potholes and slow down smoothly.
It prevents last-second braking, which amplifies the shock.
Keeping your distance also protects your tires and prevents costly mechanical damage.

4. Avoid Sudden Last-Second Maneuvers

A sharp steering input to dodge a pothole can sometimes create more risk than the impact itself, especially on icy or snow-covered pavement.

Prioritize smooth and predictable driving at all times.
It is often safer to absorb a minor impact than to risk losing control.
Leaving the roadway can have far more serious consequences than a damaged tire.

After an Impact: What to Check

Despite all precautions, some potholes are simply unavoidable. After an impact, it is recommended to inspect your vehicle as soon as possible.

A bulge on the tire sidewall.
An unusually rapid loss of pressure.
Unusual vibrations felt through the steering wheel.
The vehicle pulling to one side.

These warning signs should not be ignored. A damaged tire can quickly become dangerous and should be replaced without delay.

In Summary

Potholes are unfortunately part of spring driving conditions across Canada. By adopting a preventive driving approach, anticipating hazards and staying attentive to road conditions, drivers can reduce their impact and avoid repairs that can quickly become expensive.

And if an unexpected situation does occur, such as a flat tire, 4tires.ca makes it easy to purchase a replacement tire at a competitive price, delivered directly to your door, simply and without hassle.

Vehicle tires on wet road maintaining a safe following distance

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