Potholes are often associated with flat tires and damaged cars, but they're also one of several hazards pedestrians face during the summer.

Combined with uneven sidewalks, raised pavement and less supportive footwear like sandals and flip-flops, doctors say these conditions can increase the risk of trips, falls and ankle injuries.

A trauma surgeon at Brookdale Hospital Medical Center says the hospital has treated more than 500 ankle injuries since Jan. 1. While ankle injuries happen for many reasons, doctors say uneven walking surfaces and unstable footwear can make it easier to lose your footing.

Physical therapists say many of those falls happen in an instant. Stepping into a pothole or onto uneven pavement can cause the foot to twist unexpectedly, resulting in sprains, fractures or other ankle injuries.

They recommend paying attention to where you're walking, wearing supportive footwear on uneven surfaces and following a rehabilitation plan if an injury does occur.

The New York City Department of Transportation says it has filled about 180,000 potholes so far this year – a 54% increase over the average of the previous four years. The agency says crews typically repair potholes within two days of receiving a complaint while continuing repaving projects across the city's streets.