MDOT Posts Tips for Driving During Terrible Pothole Season

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) says record snow and cold may be departing, but they are leaving behind one of Michigan's worst pothole seasons ever. MDOT is suggesting some ways that motorists can avoid hitting potholes and minimize the damage if they do.

State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle says "our aging roads, a history of under-investment, and an unusually harsh winter will bring what we expect to be an absolutely horrendous pothole season." He adds that potholes form so quickly "that crews can't get all of them right away, and they showing up nearly everywhere. If you leave your driveway, you're almost certainly going to cross some awful potholes this spring."

MDOT says avoid hitting potholes is best, and driving with extra caution and not tailgating will help drivers see and react to them. MDOT also says that a properly maintained vehicle can help avoid potholes and minimize damage when one is struck. They say it's best to slow down then release the brakes before hitting a pothole. It helps to reduce the speed at impact as well as give the vehicle's suspension the full range of travel to absorb the impact.

Additional tips for potholes can be found on MDOT's website here.