As van owners, our roads have become increasingly prone to potholes and bumps that can cause damage to our vehicles. These worrying road defects are now a major issue in the United Kingdom.
According to the latest report from Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA) this year, 18 per cent of roads in the UK will be undrivable in less than five years’ time unless billions of pounds of investment are made. In fact, a total of £14 billion is needed to fix all of England and Wales’ potholes and get the country’s roads back up to standard.
HERE you can read more about the latest report and annual survey from Asphalt Industry Alliance / AIA Report
The strain of these repairs will be felt on all aspects of our lives from slow transportation times due to diversions, increased fuel costs, and wear and tear causing costly yet necessary mechanics or general maintenance. In this post we look at why the UK is experiencing a pothole crisis and how it could affect you as a van owner and road users in the long run.
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More Potholes on Local Roads in the United Kingdom Than Ever Before!
The roads in the United Kingdom have become a hot topic in recent years as the 'pothole crisis' continues to worsen. Thousands of potholes line the streets, causing accidents, damage to vehicles, and countless headaches for many drivers. The issue is so severe that it has cost taxpayers millions of pounds in repair bills and compensation claims. The root cause of the problem is a lack of funding for local road maintenance, leaving many roads in a state of disrepair.
While the local authorities has promised to address the situation, the pothole problem remains a major concern for commuters and local councils alike. With no clear solution in sight, it seems that the crisis will continue to be a source of frustration and inconvenience for drivers across the country.
What Causes Potholes and How Does it Affect Drivers
Potholes are a common sight on roads all around the world. They are essentially bowl-shaped holes that are formed on the road surfaces due to the wear and tear caused by various factors such as weather conditions, heavy traffic, and road construction work.
The formation of potholes can pose serious risks to drivers as they can cause damage to the tires, suspension, and wheel alignment of a vehicle. Moreover, it can also lead to accidents as drivers may swerve or lose control of their vehicle while trying to avoid a pothole. In some cases, potholes have even caused fatalities. Therefore, it is important for drivers to be aware of the dangers of potholes and take necessary precautions such as maintaining a safe speed and distance from other vehicles, and avoiding sudden manoeuvres or abrupt stops. One pothole can cause serious damage.
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The Economic Impact of the Pothole Crisis to Van Owners
If you're a van owner, you'll know exactly how important your vehicle is for your business. The van gets you and your tools or cargo to where you need to be, quickly and efficiently. However, the UK's ongoing negative pothole situation has caused widespread frustration for drivers, and particularly so for van owners.
Not only can potholes cause damage to the wheels, suspension and alignment systems of your van, but they can also lead to excessive fuel consumption if you have to regularly slow down or swerve to avoid them. All of these issues have a significant economic impact, eating into your budget as you have to pay for expensive repairs or use extra fuel to compensate for the damage...
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Local Authorities and Council Response and Solutions to the Pothole Problem
Potholes and poor condition roads can undoubtedly turn even the smoothest ride into a bumpy and frustrating one. Luckily, local governments have been addressing this issue and finding innovative solutions to keep roads safe and easy to navigate. Many cities have implemented road maintenance programs that focus on pothole repairs, using everything from traditional asphalt materials to more resilient alternatives like recycled rubber and sticking plaster solutions.
With the continuous efforts of local and regional governments to combat potholes, drivers can be assured of smoother and safer local roads ahead.
Are you feeling that your local councils isn't doing enough to fix potholes on your local roads? Go on your local councils website, find the contact information to the right department and ask them about their plan when it comes to fixing potholes. Making the roads safer for both motorists and cyclists!
What Can You Do As a Driver To Avoid Potholes?
As a driver and van ownwer, one of the most frustrating and unavoidable road hazards are potholes. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause significant damage to your vehicle and, in some cases, even result in a car accident.
To avoid these pitfalls, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Look out for signs of potholes up ahead, such as changes in the road surface or cracks in the asphalt. Secondly, reduce your speed when approaching a pothole. This will give you more time to react and swerve if necessary. Finally, make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition, as this will help absorb some of the impact of hitting a pothole. By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and your vehicle safe on your local road.