North Antrim motorists driven potty following big freeze

The pothole season is upon us like never before courtesy of the past three weeks of sub-zero temperatures.

A number of local drivers have contacted us, describing how they've suffered from damaged tyres, wheels and suspension following the icy weather.

Basically put, ice causes potholes by breaking the asphalt apart – water runs into any cracks in a road or path and then expands as freezes, tearing the surface apart.

The ice then melts as the temperature rises above zero in the daytime, before freezing again at night and repeating the "freeze and thaw" process on a daily basis.

One woman who contacted us said: "The problem is made worse by the fact that our roads are dug up so often.

"Trenches created by utility companies cause weaknesses that the ice gets into".

A spokesperson for DRD Roads Service, confirmed on Thursday the recent prolonged spell of ice and snow has left them with a lot of work to do, stating: "The snow and ice is currently clearing from all roads and we are getting the first opportunity in many weeks to see the surface of many roads.

"The inspection process has just started again in these areas and it will be some time before staff will get around all roads.

"It will only be then that we can ascertain what areas have been affected and the funding required to carry out all the repairs.

"The prolonged and extreme cold spell has led to numerous potholes and Roads Service teams are currently repairing these potholes".

To avoid any additional vehicle damage and expense caused as a result of driving over potholes, TyreSafe, the UK's leading tyre safety organisation, is advising motorists to ensure their wheels are properly aligned.

Driving over potholes can alter the vehicle's steering and suspension geometries or damage critical components which can reduce vehicle safety or generate extra running costs.

By ensuring wheels are correctly aligned, drivers can minimise the effects of any pothole damage and ensure they remain as safe as possible.

"The recent bad weather will inevitably increase the number of potholes we see on our roads which can cause a number of serious safety issues for drivers," explained Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe.

"If a car's wheels are not correctly aligned it may pull to one side or cause vibrations in the steering wheel which can be distracting and make the vehicle difficult to control. By visiting your local garage or tyre dealer they will be able to perform some simple checks to make sure the wheels are correctly aligned, helping you to stay safe."

According to the AA, last February's heavy snow increased insurance claims for pothole damage by more than 250 percent.

With the current prolonged spell of snow and freezing conditions, road damage is expected to be even worse this year.