Britain’s roads. As far as I am concerned, they are not all that bad. Compared to the rest of Europe our roads are pretty good. Roads are lightened during dark hours, road markings are well painted and road signs are always placed correctly. However there is one pet hate of mine concerning Britain’s roads…potholes.

In recent years the British weather has become even more unpredictable, and this has had a pretty big impact upon our roads.

Potholes are becoming a regular sight on British roads

The highways agency are fighting a losing battle trying to keep up with the repairing the unsightly and dangerous holes. Many roads have become a patchwork of tarmac which means everytime we have a cold snap the temperatures cause the tarmac to move and often become dislodged. Whilst many drivers driver over potholes without a second thought, and only feel a small shudder, the reality is that potholes can be causing long term, dangerous damage on your car.

Hitting a pothole, regardless of what speed you hit it at, can cause serious damage to a tyre. Potholes have the potential to cause problems such as cuts and bulges in the sidewall of a tyre – which will leave it illegal. More worryingly, large potholes have reportedly cause problems such as wheel misalignment, cracks in those expensive alloy wheels you love and even damage to suspension. It does not make for good reading, it also can put you and your passengers in serious danger.

So how can you avoid such travisties?

You must ensure that your tyres have the correct pressure. This way they are less likely to suffer more severe damage. Simple tyre checks regularly can ensure that your tyres are in top shape. Many overlook tyre care as a part of car maintenance, but its a vital part.

If you do see a pothole coming up on the road ahead, slow down or try to avoid it if its possible and safe to do so. If you do have potholes in your area try and report them to save both yourself and other motorists further costs. Remember too that you pay your road tax for a reason, so if you do suffer damage at the expense of a pothole and believe the council should have repaired it, then you can make a claim against the council.

Any potholes in your area? Why not send in a photo for us!

With petrol and diesel prices on the rise, and showing no signs of stopping, the cost of running a vehicle has never been higher. £20 in the tank used to get drivers pretty far, but these days it seems £20 doesn’t get you half as far anymore.

Many drivers often blame their vehicle type for the amount of fuel consumption. Whilst this is true for the most part, your driving can also severely affect your vehicles fuel consumption, more so than you ever imagined. Altering your driving in simple ways can cut the amount of fuel you consume and make those pounds you spend at the pump go a whole lot further.

Get you car in top shape

When aiming to cut fuel consumption, the best place to start is by giving your car a little TLC. There are many simple, quick steps you can take in just looking after your vehicle that can aid in making the miles go further. 

• Check tyre pressure frequently: Under-inflated tyres are not only dangerous and but also increase your fuel consumption. Its best to always check tyre pressure before and after a long journey, but also on a monthly basis too. Having the correct tyre pressure will also improve vehicle handling: you’ll definitely feel the difference!
• Air conditioning – switching it off or using climate control on the ‘eco’ setting reduces fuel consumption. Did you know opening a window at high speed increases fuel consumption more than using air conditioning? During summer months, carry water to keep you cool instead of costly Air-con!
• Switch it off – cars use virtually no extra fuel when they’re re-started without pressing the accelerator. Turn off if you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute or two. There is a common misconception that if you are going to be stationary its best to leave the engine running: its not! Switching off is also good for the environment, not just your wallet.

Remember its not just about the car you drive, its the way you drive too that counts.