This spring beware potholes
It’s a well-known fact: water seepage, repeated freeze and thaw cycles, the passage of heavy trucks and the use of corrosive de-icing products damage roads and create potholes each spring, creating a hazard for drivers.
What motorists may not be aware of however is that they generally have little recourse for damage caused by potholes.
According to La Presse, the City of Montreal has received more than 150 claims since January 2011 and has only compensated 10 of these claimants, for an average of $91.40. The newspaper also reports that since 1993, the Quebec government and municipalities have generally refused to assume liability for damage caused by the condition of roads. Some drivers' insurance plans also may not provide coverage.
Motorists tend to avoid potholes by swerving around them, which can lead to accidents and what could very well be the main cause of pothole-related damage and auto insurance claims. However, careful drivers know that it’s best to invest in tires that can resist this type of impact and drive through potholes, instead of risking a flat or a head-on collision trying to avoid them.
Many municipalities across Canada have set up programs where citizens can call to report potholes. When reporting a pothole, be as specific as possible; include the name of the street, the nearest intersection and information about which lane the pothole is in.