Potholes are the worst, and they’re at their worst at the end of the winter rainy season. They form when water from snow, rain or ice melt seeps into a crack; this moisture weakens the roadway and the heavy weight of vehicles breaks down the pavement causing potholes to grow and grow.
In Houston, we have some monsters out there. In fact, it has gotten so bad that the city has created the 311 Smartphone App for Android and iPhone (available for download in the Apple App Store or on Google Play) where you can submit a service request to have your neighborhood’s potholes filled in. The city even highlights one pothole a week on their website in an attempt to show citizens that they are aware of your complaints and that your calls to action are being answered.
Unfortunately, damage to your vehicle caused by a pothole will not be reimbursed by the city. The good news? If you have included collision coverage in your auto insurance policy pothole damage is typically covered. It will even cover you if a pothole causes you to hit another vehicle or a pedestrian. Your insurance will not however cover you for maintenance of your auto due to poor road conditions.
A collision with a pothole can result in:
- Flat tires due to puncture
- Wheel rim damage
- Damage to suspension components
- Alignment issues
- Engine Damage
- Damage to the exhaust system
So when you are out there on the road, be on the look out for potholes and work to avoid them. If you are concerned about its size or scope, go ahead and report it to the city. Maybe your pothole can be the next Houston Pothole of the Week!
Contact a Texan Insurance agent to include the optional Collision Coverage in your Auto Insurance.
