WINNIPEG – Pothole season – it’s one of the most treacherous times of the year to drive on the province’s roads.
Every spring, Manitoba Public Insurance receives 300 to 500 claims from drivers hitting the craters.
“On average, (it costs) about $2200,” said MPI spokesperson Brian Smiley. “That includes bent rims, damaged tire rods, shocks.”
Luckily, MPI covers repair costs, but like any other collision, the driver is responsible for the deductible and future insurance premiums.
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Winnipeg’s 311 call centre has received more than 600 reports of potholes around the city. Crews have been out patching since mid-February but ramped up its efforts this week to include the full eleven crew fleet made up of six road patching trucks and five hand filling crews. The fixes though are just temporary until the weather warms up and the ground has completely thawed.
“We’re making those patches, going back a few times if we need to,” said the City of Winnipeg’s Ken Allen. “And when hot asphalt is available (in May), going back and making permanent repairs.”
In the meantime, the city and MPI suggest trying hard to avoid potholes if you can so it doesn’t cost you or your car.
CAA will launch its Worst Roads Campaign Wednesday.
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