During the winter months, freezing temperatures, ice and heavy drifts of snow can wreak havoc on the roads. This frequently manifests itself in the form of potholes, but these divots in the pavement are more than just bumps along the way. They can cause severe damage to your car, and even the most careful drivers may find an unavoidable and dangerous pothole in their path. 

According to the U.S. PIRG Education Fund, potholes and similar road problems will cost the average driver about $335 per year in maintenance and repair costs. In total, more than $5 billion will be spent to fix the damage done by potholes, WJLA News reported. 

"No matter where you drive these days, there's a pothole epidemic, and as winter turns to spring, it's only going to get worse," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "Drivers know immediately when they hit a pothole, but what they don't know is if their vehicle has been damaged in the process. While tires and wheels can be visually checked, potholes can also cause considerable damage to the steering, suspension and alignment systems that you just can't see." 

There are a few things drivers can do to get around potholes, including paying attention to the traffic patterns ahead. However, swerving at the last minute should be avoided – especially in the winter – as this can cause motorists to lose control of the vehicle. 

Drivers should make sure they are getting their vehicles checked for damage and fixing any problems as they arise. The Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction caters to the public and is capable of addressing issues you may have, so anyone concerned about what potholes may have done to a car should schedule an appointment.