For most people, things like potholes and cracked pavement are nothing more than minor annoyances that cause a brief jolt as you drive over them. However, these minor road defects can actually present serious problems, and they can cause major damage to both your vehicle and your body.
First, it is natural for roads to slowly degrade due to the wear and tear of traffic as well as the natural effects of erosion. However, road construction crews can take steps to help maintain the integrity of a road. Building a stable road base and properly laying the asphalt can both make a road last longer. Additionally, municipalities have the responsibility of ordering any road repairs that may be necessary in the community.
As roads break down, they can develop problems like potholes, uneven pavement, and steep should drop-offs. Potholes occur when cracks develop in the asphalt. As precipitation like rain and snow make their way into the cracks, freezing temperatures can cause the water to expand, weakening the surrounding pavement. Over time, this forms a depression called a pothole. When you drive over the pothole, the sudden jolt can damage your tires, shock absorption system, and any parts that hang beneath the car. Additionally, it can knock your car out of alignment, making it more difficult for you to drive. The bounce itself can result in whiplash for you and your passengers.
Next, as asphalt settles at different rates, it can result in uneven patches of pavement marked by long cracks in the surface, or even invisible chances with long, shallow depressions in the asphalt. Like potholes, these are caused by the sinking of the road. As you go over uneven pavement, your car can suffer from the same problems as with potholes.
Lastly, steep shoulder-drops have proven deadly. If you pull over onto the shoulder, a drop-off of only three inches can present a danger. The sharp edge of the asphalt can tear into your tire, leading to a blowout and rollover accident. If your tires make it through the transition, it is still easy to lose control when you go over a shoulder drop-off. As you try to pull your car back onto the higher road level, you may need extra force to maneuver your vehicle. However, as you suddenly pop back up onto the road, you can be pointed into the other lane.
Even minor road problems like potholes can lead to major problems with both your vehicle and your safety. If you have been hurt by a flawed roadway, you may be entitled to financial compensation to help you with your car repairs or any medical bills that have resulted from your accident.
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