RALEIGH – The following are highlights
from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are
also featured in NCDOT Now,
the department’s weekly newscast.
Reporting Potholes
While snow and ice from the recent winter storms has melted, one of
the side effects drivers may now encounter is increased potholes in roadways.
Potholes are common during the winter months when water seeps into cracks in the
road and ice forms. Those cracks widen, causing the asphalt to rise and then
traffic loosens the pavement, eventually creating a pothole.
Safety is the number one priority at the Department of
Transportation. With 80,000 miles of state roads, drivers, law enforcement and
others are necessary in helping identify locations where potholes need to be
repaired.
To speed up the response process, motorists should go to the
NCDOT’s website under the contact section and let the department know where
the pothole is located. This report will go directly to the county
maintenance office that will handle the request.
In 2017, nearly 11,000 potholes were reported through this contact
form.
Super Bowl Sober Driving
With the Super Bowl on Sunday, now is the time for drivers to get a
game plan in place if they’ll be drinking. NCDOT and the Governor’s Highway
Safety Program are reminding motorists to celebrate responsibly by designating a
sober driver and always buckling up, every seat, every time.
In addition, those watching the game:
- Should ask a sober friend for a ride home or use a ride sharing
app, if no designated driver is present;
- If hosting a party, never let friends drive if they’ve had too
much to drink; and
- Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game.
Drivers can also download
the Be Smarter Than That app before drinking to designate a sober driver,
find ride sharing services, locate public transportation options or call a
cab.