AS DORSET shivers from the recent drop in temperatures, drivers risk causing devastating damage to their vehicles on the county's crater-strewn roads.

That’s because cold air temperatures can actually LOWER your tyre pressure - making you more susceptible to burst tyres, dented wheels and steering misalignment when hitting a pothole.

Increased fuel consumption and wear on tyres are also caused by low tyre pressure.

James O’Malley, company director of Select Car Leasing, suspects many drivers are unaware of the dangers.

He explained: “When the mercury drops, the risks posed by potholes are increased - and it’s not just down to the state of the UK's roads, which break up even more during periods of freeze and thaw.

“If a tyre is inflated to 29 PSI (pounds per square inch) at 20ºc, it might only read 26 PSI at 0ºc.

“This can make tyres more prone to bulges, tears and even bursts, while also leading to cracked alloys".

"Consult the recommended PSI in your vehicle’s handbook and check tyres at least once a week", he advised.

There’s also a recommended technique for driving through potholes.

Mr O'Malley reveals: “If there’s nothing you can do to avoid a pothole, try to hit it as straight as possible and avoid braking. “Slamming on the brakes will cause your car to tilt forward, placing extra stress on the front suspension.

“If you approach at a strange angle or turn into the pothole as you go through it, you could cause a blow-out".