Michigan and Indiana have both landed in the top 5 states notorious for their pothole-riddled roads, according to recent rankings.
Residents of the Midwest are likely all too familiar with this issue, but staying vigilant about these hazardous road hazards could potentially prevent future headaches and expenses.
As spring approaches, the seasonal scourge of potholes is expected to resurface. Last year, AAA reported that a staggering 44 million Americans had to fork out for repairs due to pothole-related damages.
USA Today Blueprint conducted an analysis of pothole-related searches and mentions nationwide, pinpointing Michigan and Indiana as hotspots for these road woes. This study underscored the prevalence of pothole problems in our region, ranking it among the worst in the country.
Nick VinZant of USA Today Blueprint highlighted the severity of the situation, particularly in the South Bend area, which contends with a significant pothole problem, aligned with the troubling rankings of Michigan and Indiana. Michigan secured the third spot for the worst pothole problem, while Indiana trailed closely behind in fifth place.
According to a spokesperson from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), the formation of potholes is spurred by weeks and sometimes months of frozen water that expands within pavement cracks.
Nick Schirripa, representing MDOT, emphasized the cyclical nature of pavement cracking, stating, “We have big cracks in pavement, right? I mean, aging pavement cracks, it’s the nature of the way payment works. Moisture gets in there, freezes and expands. And then when it thaws and contracts that void is created, right? So, this is that time of year.”
In response to these road hazards, Schirripa urged individuals to report potholes through MDOT’s website or by contacting their county road commission. He assured that road crews are actively patrolling the streets, especially following warmer weather spells.
For those who encounter dangerous potholes, reporting them can expedite the repair process. Schirripa emphasized the prompt response of road crews to address reported potholes, often within hours.
According to AAA statistics, the average cost of pothole-related repairs exceeds $600, underscoring the financial burden these road hazards impose on motorists.
