After a long, grueling winter, our roadways have undoubtedly become affected. The winter’s freeze-thaw cycle strains, and eventually breaks down the roadways forming mini craters, which we know as potholes. As individual motorcyclists, we need to keep an eye out for potholes to keep ourselves safe. However, as a community of motorcyclists, we should report potholes to the proper authority to help keep each other safe on our roadways as well.
While crews throughout Ohio are working to repair the roads, not every pothole is likely to be repaired – due to the simple fact that officials are unaware of each and every crevice on the road. Motorcyclists can help. As conscientious riders, naturally, we pay careful attention to the road as we ride, so we are better able to detect and report a pothole to keep ourselves and fellow motorcyclists out of harm’s way.
To report a pothole on a state roadway, which includes Interstates and U.S. and State Routes outside of municipalities, click on this link: http://www.dot.state.oh.us/damagereport/Pages/default.aspx. Visit the Ohio Court of Claims website for more information on the claims process.
To report a pothole around town, contact your local officials. In Cleveland, call 216-664-2510. To report property damage resulting from a pothole, click on this link: http://www.city.cleveland.oh.us/CityofCleveland/Home/Government/CityAgencies/Law/Claims#vehicledamage.
Potholes pose a dangerous risk for motorcyclists because they can go unseen, leading to potential harm. But we can prevent that; let’s keep an eye out and report potholes to keep ourselves and fellow motorcyclists safe on our roadways.
Further Reading:
“Ohioans Seek Compensation for Pothole Damage Through Court of Claims” by Bret Crow, Court News Ohio, January 3, 2014.