🚧 What Causes Michigan Potholes and How to Protect Your Car

Michigan winters bring icy roads, snowy shoulders, and one of the most frustrating hazards for drivers: potholes. These pavement craters can flatten tires, bend wheels, and wreck your suspension. This guide explains how potholes form, how to avoid them, and what to do if your car is damaged.

❄️ Why Are Michigan Potholes So Common?

Potholes can form anywhere, but they’re especially severe in Michigan because of our climate. Here’s why:

  • Water seeps into tiny cracks in the pavement.
  • When temperatures drop below freezing, that water expands, causing the pavement to bulge and crack.
  • As cars drive over these weak spots, the surface breaks apart, creating potholes.

👉 Fun fact: Michigan’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles make it one of the most pothole-prone states in the country.

🚗 Michigan Pothole Prevention Tips

While you can’t stop potholes from forming, you can take steps to reduce your risk of car damage.

  • ✅ Stick to familiar roads; knowing where the hazardous spots are helps you avoid surprises.
  • ✅ Drive on well-lit roads at night; better lighting allows you more time to spot surface issues.
  • ✅ Slowing down reduces speed and gives you time to react and avoid potholes.
  • ✅ Please brake before reaching the pothole, as braking on it can increase damage; it’s better to roll over it instead.
  • ✅ Inspect your car afterward If you hit a pothole, check your tires and wheels for visible damage.

🔧 How to Know If Your Car Has Pothole Damage

Even if you don’t see visible damage, watch for warning signs:

  • Bulging tires or tire leaks
  • Bent rims or visible dents
  • Steering wheel pulling to one side
  • Car shaking or bouncing possible suspension or shock issues

👉 Tip: If you notice any of these, get your vehicle checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.

🛡️ Does Auto Insurance Cover Pothole Damage in Michigan?

Good news! If you carry collision coverage on your Michigan auto insurance, it may cover pothole damage. However:

  • Tire-only damage often isn’t covered.
  • You’ll pay your collision deductible before coverage kicks in.
  • Your rates may change if you file a claim as an at-fault accident.

Recommendation: Talk to your insurance agent before filing to understand your specific policy terms.

📝 Where to Report Michigan Pothole Claims

If you’ve hit a pothole and want to report the damage or the road condition:

Refer to our detailed guide on How to Report a Michigan Pothole Claim for filing instructions, links, and county contact info.

🌐 Outbound Resource

Learn more from the Michigan Department of Transportation Pothole Page.

💥 Call to Action

👉 Stay ahead of costly car repairs! Protect your vehicle by staying alert on Michigan roads, and make sure your insurance policy is ready when you need it. For a free insurance review or quote, click Get Quote today.

How to Avoid Michigan potholes