While they’re certainly irritating and jarring, potholes are more than just annoying. As GMG General explains, even the shallowest ones can be dangerous and costly. For almost 30 years, this paving company has been responsible for various road repair and paving projects throughout the Anchorage, AK, area. To maximize everyone’s safety and well-being they recommend patching up potholes ASAP.

Formation

Before understanding what kinds of risks potholes can create, it’s important to know how they’re formed. Essentially, they’re the result of frozen water worsening cracks in the road or pavement. Because water expands as it freezes, it exacerbates the width and depth of any fractures. Poor drainage, a lack of maintenance, and stressors, such as constant traffic further, complicate the problem.

Possible Dangers

Car accidents can happen anytime, even when the conditions are favorable; they can occur on the smoothest roads, in the middle of the afternoon, and on a sunny day. The presence of potholes only increases the chances of a fatality, especially on highways and other roads with higher speed limits. Think about how startling it is when you accidentally drive too fast over a speed bump you weren’t aware of; it can rattle your whole car. For cyclists, the problem is even worse.

Financial Effects

Not only do they increase the likelihood of an accident, but they also subsequently increase the need for car repairs too. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA) potholes cost us about $3 billion annually in car repairs. For example, the suspension can suffer a blow and tires can be punctured. While things like the latter can, and should, be eventually replaced with regular usage, a flat, level road is much better for their longevity.

Solutions

Ideally, any cracks in the road should be patched up by a paving company before potholes form. Preventative measures are key; this means that sealant should be applied to roads and driveways when needed and that any fissures or indentations are treated as soon as they’re detected.

Whether you own a home or business, if there are any crevices, cavities, or full-blown potholes on your driveway or anywhere else on your property, call GMG General at (907) 349-7854 for a free estimate. They’ll be able to smooth things over promptly and properly. Need something other than road repairs? Their services also include excavation work and pouring concrete for sidewalks, stairways, and much more. For more information about everything this paving company has to offer, visit their website.