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The Hidden Hazards of Poor Road Conditions

USA freeway with potholes on the left. European freeway free of potholes or debris on the right

Driving safety goes beyond speed limits and airbags—it’s about the very roads we drive on. Unfortunately, poor road conditions in the U.S. create dangerous situations, especially for newer drivers. Across the country, from the Southwest Freeway’s “washboard” surface in Washington, D.C., to pothole-laden highways in Kansas City and Portland, drivers face unpredictable, hazardous terrain.

The risks are serious: roads that are full of potholes, uneven surfaces, and obstacles demand constant corrections from drivers, creating a stressful and often dangerous driving experience.

The Cost of Rough Roads

With 3.9 million miles of highways and roads, the U.S. holds the largest network of roads worldwide. Yet, the Federal Highway Administration estimates that about 46% of roads are in poor condition, slightly better than the estimate of over half from a 1996 article. This poor condition contributes significantly to congestion and accidents, resulting in an estimated $120 billion cost each year in damages and delays.

Even though $28 billion is spent on maintenance and construction yearly, some highways, particularly those with heavy truck traffic, wear out much faster than anticipated. Certain stretches, such as I-35 south of Kansas City and I-20 in Louisiana, are infamous for testing drivers’ patience—and shock absorbers.

Hidden Obstacles on the Road

In addition to rough surfaces, U.S. roads are often littered with large debris like mattresses, washers, and other items that fall off improperly secured vehicles. In some European countries, vehicles transporting goods must be fully enclosed, which helps reduce the risk of loose items creating hazards. In the U.S., the lack of similar regulations for open vehicles allows debris to scatter on highways, creating dangerous, unexpected obstacles that force drivers to swerve or brake suddenly.

What We Can Learn from European Roads

While U.S. roadways are worn down by heavy traffic and large trucks, the weight and frequency of European traffic are often even higher. European roads, however, tend to be smoother and more durable because they’re built for longevity. In Germany, for example, highways are designed to last 40 years, with deep, well-drained roadbeds and resilient materials that prevent frost damage and potholes.

European countries also invest in regular road maintenance. Repairs are made before damage is visible, extending the life of their roads and ensuring a safe, consistent driving experience for everyone. A 1990 study group of U.S. experts found European roadways receiving maintenance even though they seemed in “superb” condition by American standards.

Enhancing Road Safety Through Innovation

The U.S. is beginning to adopt some of the techniques used in Europe, such as adding innovative polymers to asphalt and embedding uniformly sized stones for longer-lasting surfaces. However, contracting methods in the U.S. often limit the use of new techniques, with contracts based on rigid specifications rather than performance goals.

In contrast, European countries set performance expectations and let contractors innovate to meet them. This system encourages longer-lasting solutions and fosters new approaches to road building, making European roads more adaptable and safer in the long run.

Keeping Roads Clear and Safe

The solution to safer roads doesn’t end with potholes. Ensuring that vehicles, especially open cargo trucks, secure their loads properly would prevent dangerous debris from entering roadways. For young drivers, these unpredictable hazards can be particularly overwhelming, and addressing them would help make driving a safer experience for all.

The Road Ahead: Prioritizing Safety Over Shortcuts

Investing in better materials, enforcing proper cargo securing, and emphasizing long-term maintenance over short-term fixes would bring the U.S. road system closer to the safe, durable infrastructure seen in Europe. While innovation is slowly being introduced, we still have a long way to go to ensure all drivers can safely navigate our roads.

How Drivers Can Help Keep Roads Clear and Report Issues

Drivers play an important role in keeping our roads safe and debris-free. If you notice a pothole, uneven surface, or hazardous debris, you can take action by reporting it to local authorities or through your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) website or app. Many DOTs have specific portals for pothole reporting or apps that allow users to upload photos of hazards, making it easier for road maintenance teams to locate and address the issues.

Here are a few ways drivers can contribute to road safety:

  • Report Hazards: Use apps or websites from your local DOT to report potholes or debris quickly. This feedback helps maintenance teams prioritize repairs.
  • Secure Cargo: If you’re transporting large items, double-check that they are tightly secured or consider using an enclosed vehicle. Loose items can create deadly road obstacles, so securing your load is a direct way to contribute to road safety.
  • Stay Aware and Share Updates: Keep an eye out for road hazards and communicate with friends and family on how they can report issues too. By raising awareness, we create a stronger, safer road community.

By actively participating in keeping roads clear and reporting hazards, drivers can make a direct, positive impact on road safety. Together, we can reduce accidents, prevent unnecessary damage, and help make the roads safer for all.

Empower Your Teen to Drive Safely with GUIDE2Safeti!

GUIDE2Safeti plays a crucial role. By equipping parents and teens with essential tools and knowledge for safe driving, GUIDE2Safeti empowers families to tackle the challenges posed by poor road conditions. Through its structured guidance, the app helps ensure that teens are prepared to respond effectively to potential hazards, fostering safer driving practices on our increasingly perilous roads.

Don’t let poor road conditions jeopardize your teen’s safety. Download GUIDE2Safeti today to equip your family with the essential tools and knowledge needed for safe driving. Together, we can foster confident and responsible drivers who are prepared to tackle the challenges of our roads. Join us in making every journey safer!


Sources:

https://usafacts.org/state-of-the-union/transportation-infrastructure
https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-harris-administration-sending-states-61-billion-bipartisan-infrastructure-law
https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/nhtsa-estimates-traffic-fatalities-declined-first-half-2024
https://www.bing.com/search?pc=OA1&q=recent%20studies%20comparing%20US%20and%20European%20road%20maintenance%20practices%20polymers%20asphalt
https://insights.basf.com/home/article/read/the-polymers-protecting-our-pavement

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