CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — Potholes are formed by water intrusion in the cracks of the asphalt.
As a result, the material laid underneath the road softens causing weak spots to collapse under the weight of constant traffic.
According to AAA’s survey, pothole damage has cost U.S. motorists approximately $3 billion annually in vehicle repairs over the last five years.
To minimize vehicle damage and loss of life, AAA advises motorists to make certain tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth. If motorists can’t avoid striking a pothole, it is important to slow down, release the brakes and straighten steering before making contact with the pothole.
AAA offers the following recommendations:
• To avoid striking a pothole, remain alert, scan the road ahead and drive at least 3-4 seconds behind the vehicle ahead.
• Since tires are the only “cushion” between a pothole and a vehicle, it’s important to ensure tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth.
• Check to see if your vehicle is equipped with a spare tire or a tire inflator kit. Ensure the spare tire is properly inflated before trouble strikes.
Key findings:
15 percent of U.S. drivers (16 million motorists) report sustaining vehicle damage that requires repair as a result of hitting a pothole at least once in the last five years.
• 20 percent of drivers in the Northeast
• 16 percent of drivers in the South
• 15 percent of drivers in the West
• 10 percent of drivers in the Midwest