After a long stretch of bitterly cold weather across Windsor-Essex, we’re now heading into the classic spring thaw, and that means potholes are forming fast across local streets. Freezing and thawing cycles from winter break down pavement surfaces, creating cracks that quickly turn into potholes once temperatures rise and snowmelt begins. These road hazards may seem minor, but they can cause costly vehicle damage and create headaches for drivers.
Why So Many Potholes Now?
Potholes result from moisture seeping into road cracks, freezing, expanding, and then thawing, which weakens asphalt until chunks break away. Windsor-Essex sees the same pattern after long, cold winters, and with the recent extended freeze followed by warming days, potholes are appearing more frequently on residential and main arteries alike.
The Cost to Drivers
Hitting a pothole might seem like a minor bump in the road but it can lead to costly auto repairs. Common vehicle issues include:
- Tire or rim damage
- Misalignment
- Suspension issues
- Cracked shocks
These types of repairs can add up fast, especially when the damage isn’t immediately visible and only shows up after continued driving.
How to Report Potholes in Windsor-Essex
Your reports matter. The City of Windsor encourages residents to report potholes by calling 311 with the location and details so the city can schedule repairs as quickly as possible. Temporary “cold patch” repair crews work during the early spring, and once hot asphalt is available, they can do more permanent fixes.
You can also use the Windsor 311 mobile app to take and submit a photo of the pothole and track the status of your request from your smartphone.
Document Damage for Claims
If your vehicle has been damaged due to a pothole, it helps to take clear photos of:
- The pothole itself
- The damage to your vehicle
- The location and nearby landmarks
Once documented, get a repair estimate from a mechanic and check your insurance policy; damage from potholes may be covered under comprehensive, collision, or all-perils coverage depending on your plan. If insurance doesn’t cover it, you might be able to file a claim with the municipality, but timely reporting and proper documentation can make all the difference.
Stay Safe
While it’s impossible to avoid every pothole, slowing down when roads look rough and keeping a safe following distance can reduce the chances of severe damage. Stay alert, report potholes, and take pictures; it helps both your neighbours and your chances of recovery if your vehicle is hurt by the road.