National Pothole Day on 15 January draws attention to one of South Africa’s most persistent driving challenges. With an estimated 25 million potholes across the country, encountering these road hazards has become part of daily life for many motorists. Beyond the frustration, potholes can cause significant damage to tyres, wheels and suspension, often leading to costly repairs.
Super Tyres Managing Director Dean Horn says awareness and preparation are essential. “Safe driving habits and proper vehicle maintenance go a long way in reducing damage and keeping motorists safe,” he explains.
Reduce the Risk While Driving
Being alert behind the wheel is the first line of defence against pothole damage.
- Slow down when approaching a pothole so the suspension can absorb the impact more effectively. Avoid braking suddenly while driving over it.
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel to maintain control.
- Avoid swerving abruptly into another lane, as this can increase the risk of an accident. Driving over a smaller pothole is often safer.
- Look well ahead to spot hazards early. Maintain a safe following distance to allow better visibility and more reaction time.
- Extra caution is needed in wet weather, as puddles can hide deep potholes.
Vehicle Maintenance and Preparation
Well-maintained vehicles are better equipped to handle unpredictable road conditions.
- Check tyre pressure regularly and ensure it matches manufacturer specifications. Correctly inflated tyres offer better protection against impact.
- Inspect tyres frequently and book regular tyre rotations to identify hidden damage early.
- Rotate tyres every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres to promote even wear and reduce vulnerability to pothole damage.
- Check wheel alignment if you hit a large pothole, as misalignment can affect handling and shorten tyre lifespan.
- Invest in quality tyres. Durable tyres, particularly those with reinforced sidewalls, may cost more initially but can save you money over time.
“Quality tyres are not just about performance, they are about safety,” says Dean Horn. “Investing wisely can prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns.”
What to do after Hitting a Pothole
If you suspect your vehicle has been damaged, acting quickly is important.
- Pull over safely if you notice vibrations, pulling to one side or unusual noises.
- Visually inspect tyres, rims and the undercarriage for visible damage.
- Report the pothole to the relevant authority, such as your local municipality or SANRAL for national roads, noting the exact location.
- Take photographs and keep repair receipts if you plan to submit an insurance claim.
Super Tyres Pothole Repair Initiative
Super Tyres continues to take practical steps to improve road safety through its Pothole Repair initiative. The project focuses on repairing smaller potholes in low-traffic residential areas where repairs can make an immediate difference.
“Our Asibambisane (Let’s carry each other) initiative is about supporting the communities we serve,” explains Dean Horn. “While we cannot repair every pothole, we are committed to doing what we can, where we can, as a voluntary service.”
Community members can report potholes by submitting a location pin and a photo via WhatsApp to 064 859 9180. Each submission is assessed to determine whether it qualifies for repair. Approved potholes are listed on the Super Tyres website, where the public can vote for the repairs they would like prioritised. Once completed, repaired potholes are marked as such on the site.
“As Super Tyres celebrates 55 years in business, our commitment has always been about more than tyres,” says Dean Horn. “It is about keeping families safe on the road and supporting the communities we serve. Safer roads benefit everyone, and we believe meaningful change happens when businesses and communities work together.”