If you’re a driver, you’ve likely fallen victim to a pothole at one time or another. It could have caused a flat tire, or you may have had to bring your car in for more detailed work at an auto body shop. Whatever the reason, Branson Collision Center in Taney County, MO, knows pothole damage can result in expensive frame repairs, which is why they’ve compiled a few steps below to help you avoid it. 

To prevent potholes from wreaking havoc on your vehicle, here are four tips to help you steer clear of them: 

• Slow Down: This tip might not seem helpful, but, if you do hit a pothole, it’s better to be going at a reduced speed. Slowing down will minimize damage and make it easier for you to see potholes from the driver’s seat. 
• Leave Space Between Vehicles: Leaving a decent amount of space between your vehicle and the car ahead of you won’t just help you avoid a fender bender, but it will also minimize the chance potholes can sneak up on you. By leaving some space in between cars, you can see a pothole as you approach, allowing you to dodge it, if possible. 
• Watch For Puddles: Puddles often hide potholes, so avoiding them is key. When you see one you can’t avoid, be sure to slow down and try to run over it as smoothly as possible to minimize damage to your tires and vehicle. 
• Don’t Slam On Brakes: If you see you’re about to hit a pothole head-on, avoid slamming on the brakes; doing so will compress your front suspension. When you slam on your brakes before hitting a potholes, it pushes your vehicle deeper into it, resulting in repairs at an auto body shop. 

If your vehicle has suffered pothole damage, Branson Collision Center can help bring it back to life in no time. Contact the auto body shop today at (417) 335-3775. They also specialize in collision repairs and dent removal, so visit them online for a complete list of services.