Potholes Send 2018 AAA Flat Tire Calls Soaring 34%

AAA responds to over 25,000 falt tire calls in the Philadelphia-area in Q1

PHILADELPHIA, PA (April 2, 2018) A plague of pothole problems continues to shake local drivers and their vehicles in the Philadelphia 5-county region. Since January 1^st, AAA Mid-Atlantic has received more than 25,000 tire-related calls, up 34 percent year-over-year. This winter’s extreme temperature swings could make this year’s “pothole season” one for the record books.

“Pothole season started nearly two months early this year and is far from over,” says Jana L. Tidwell, manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “Because of the sheer number of potholes, drivers should get used to being on the lookout for them until they can be repaired.”

AAA Mid-Atlantic Roadside Assistance Stats – Flat Tires – Philadelphia 5-County

AAA Mid-Atlantic has responded to more than 25,000 flat tire calls year-to-date (up 34 percent), compared to more than 19,000 flat tire calls in the same period in 2017.

To minimize vehicle damage from potholes, AAA offers the following tips:

• Inspect Tires – Make sure tires are properly inflated and have a healthy tread.

• Look ahead – Make a point of scanning the road ahead for potholes. An alert driver is more likely to have time to avoid a pothole so limit distractions.

• Slow Down – If a pothole cannot be avoided, reduce speed safely without abrupt braking.

• Beware of Puddles – puddles often disguise deep potholes.

• Recognize Noises/Vibrations – A hard pothole impact can dislodge wheel weights, damage tires or wheels and can break suspension components. Any unusual noises after a pothole hit should be inspected immediately.

• Where’s the Spare – New car owners beware, a quick fix for a blown out tire may be no more, as many newer cars do not have spare tires.

• Big Hole, Big Hit – A large pothole hit usually results in, not only replacing a tire, but also the need for wheel alignment and possible steering linkage damage - a hit to drivers’ wallets.

   

“Motorists should remain alert and assume potholes will be around for weeks and months to come, as road crews continue to battle weather events and pothole patching efforts,” said Jana L. Tidwell, manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “Potholes don’t just leave you shaken – they’re a serious safety hazard and can lead to costly repair bills. You may easily lose control of your vehicle if you hit a pothole, possibly leading to a crash, and it’s just as dangerous to swerve to avoid it. Slow down and stay alert, especially as road crews continue working to patch potholes.”

Motorists in Philadelphia can report potholes by calling 311 or 215-686-5560, or online.  Outside of Philadelphia, motorists can call PennDOT at 1-800-FIX-ROAD (1-800-349-7623), or report a problem to PennDOT online to their Customer Care Center.

Motorists seeking a trustworthy repair shop to help maintain their vehicle for winter and spring driving are encouraged to visit one of AAA Mid-Atlantic’s owned and operated AAA Car Care, Insurance and Travel Centers or one of AAA’s more than 8,000 Approved Auto Repair facilities.

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Mailing Address:
7777 Brewster Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19159

AAA provides automotive, travel and insurance services to 57 million members nationwide and more than three million members in Pennsylvania.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  The not-for-profit, fully tax-paying member organization works on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit www.AAA.com.