While winter driving often gets the most attention, spring presents its own unique set of hazards for drivers. As the snow melts and roads begin to clear, new risks emerge that can impact both safety and your auto insurance.

One of the biggest issues drivers face in April is potholes. After months of freezing and thawing, roads across Ontario can become severely damaged. Water seeps into small cracks in the pavement, freezes, expands, and then thaws—causing the asphalt to weaken and break apart. The result? Deep, often unavoidable potholes that can cause significant damage to your vehicle in a matter of seconds.

Hitting a pothole isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to costly repairs. Common damage includes blown tires, bent rims, misaligned wheels, and suspension issues. In more severe cases, it can even affect steering components or cause undercarriage damage. What makes potholes particularly dangerous is that they’re often hidden by rainwater or slush, making them difficult to see until it’s too late.

From an insurance standpoint, damage caused by potholes is typically covered under collision coverage, as it’s considered an impact with an object. If a driver does not carry collision coverage, they would be responsible for repair costs out of pocket. This is why understanding your policy details is especially important during the spring months.

In Ontario, there are also legal considerations when it comes to pothole damage. Municipalities have a responsibility to maintain roads, but they are not automatically liable for every incident. Under the Municipal Act, 2001, a city or municipality can only be held responsible if it can be proven that they failed to meet minimum maintenance standards or did not repair a known hazard within a reasonable timeframe.

These standards are outlined in the Ontario Regulation 239/02. For example, the regulation specifies how quickly a municipality must respond to potholes based on their size and the type of road. Larger potholes on high-traffic roads must be repaired more quickly than smaller ones on less busy streets.

If a driver believes a municipality is responsible for damage caused by a pothole, they must file a claim within a strict timeframe—typically within 10 days of the incident. The claim should include details such as the exact location, time, photos of the damage, and any repair estimates. However, even when a claim is filed, compensation is not guaranteed, as the municipality may demonstrate that it met the required maintenance standards.

Because of these limitations, many drivers find that going through their auto insurance—if properly covered—is often the more reliable and efficient route.

To reduce the risk of pothole damage, drivers should:

  • Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to spot hazards earlier
  • Avoid puddles that may conceal deep potholes
  • Drive at moderate speeds, especially on unfamiliar or damaged roads
  • Ensure tires are properly inflated to better absorb impact

Spring driving in Ontario requires a different level of awareness. Potholes are more than just a nuisance—they’re a real financial risk. Being proactive, both in how you drive and how your insurance is structured, can make all the difference.

Spring also brings increased rainfall, which can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility. Hydroplaning becomes a real concern when water builds up on road surfaces, causing tires to lose contact with the road. Even experienced drivers can find themselves in dangerous situations if they’re not cautious.

Another often-overlooked risk is changing driving habits. As the weather improves, more pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists return to the roads. This increase in activity means drivers need to be extra alert and aware of their surroundings.

Additionally, wildlife becomes more active in the spring. Deer and other animals are more likely to cross roads, especially during dawn and dusk. Collisions with animals can cause significant damage and may fall under comprehensive coverage rather than collision, depending on the situation.

To stay safe this season, drivers should:

  • Slow down and maintain safe following distances
  • Avoid puddles that may hide potholes
  • Ensure tires are properly inflated and in good condition
  • Use headlights in rainy or low-visibility conditions
  • Stay alert for pedestrians and wildlife

Understanding your auto insurance coverage is just as important as safe driving habits. Knowing whether you have collision and comprehensive coverage can make a big difference in how claims are handled. Not sure if your auto insurance fully protects you this spring? Let us review your policy and ensure you have the right coverage for seasonal risks. Reach out to SurNet today—we’re here to keep you confidently on the road.