With Warmer Weather, Keep an Eye Out For Potholes, Says AAA

With temperatures reaching the low to mid forties during the day, but returning to below freezing overnight, AAA says motorists should keep an eye out for potholes on the roadway. Roadways that are cracked and crumbling are ideal conditions for potholes to form, the organization says. Moisture will seep into the cracks and cause them to expand and contract with freeze-thaw cycles.

As that freeze/thaw process continues, the pavement will deteriorate and the weight from passing vehicles will cause it to form a pothole. AAA says with the harsh winter New York has experienced and extended cold temperatures have taken their toll on roadways across the state, leading to an earlier than expected pothole season.

Striking a pothole can cause significant damage to a vehicle. Damage can include the tire, alignment, suspension, and vehicle shocks.

“While we’ve been inundated with requests to service dead batteries this year amid the cold spell, we expect to see more tire-related issues due to potholes now that temperatures are warming up,” said AAA Fleet Manager Jeremy Harrington. “This winter’s harsh conditions could make for an early and rough pothole season.”

A survey conducted by AAA in 2023, found nearly 2 in 10 vehicles had to be repaired after hitting a pothole. It is estimated that pothole related damage has increased by 57%, AAA says. For 2022, the average repair bill for pothole damage was $406. AAA warns with prices increasing for parts and labor costs, repair bills are likely to be higher.