PHOTO: Getty Images
I can honestly say I've never seen the pothole situation any worse than it is in Central Ohio. It's like driving on the surface of the moon. The term pothole (some people call 'em chuckholes) is deceptive. I think of something literally no bigger than a pot. But what we have are full on craters.
Each week I drive to Cincinnati. On I-71 right around Stringtown Road you practically need a monster truck to navigate that stretch. And to complicate matters it's also a construction zone. If you don't get down that way have a look at this video....
Or watch this from ABC 6 On Your Side. Reporter Geoffrey Redick does an extremely informative report.
If you don't have time to watch the video the main take away is that calling 311 and reporting the pothole will, in many cases, get swift action. What doesn't get swift action is merely grumbling about it on social media. And speaking of social media some branches of law enforcement are doing their best to at least keep people aware of the situation. High 5 to the Franklin County Sheriff Department's Twitter account. You might wanna make sure you follow them for helpful and timely updates. Their account is entertainment gold.
And the above graphic also reminds me to remind you that if you see police, rescue, fire vehicles or tow trucks on the side of the road you've gotta give 'em space. You need to move over a lane and leave them safe room to work. It's not only a common courtesy... it's the law.
What happens if you don't? You can get a pretty extensive run down here from Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz. Most likely it's gonna cost you money and could even land you in the crow bar hotel for an extended stay. The penalties go like this...
- even with a clean record it's a minor misdemeanor that is automatically doubled to $300
- traffic or motor vehicle offense in the last year? $500 and up to 30 days in the hole
- 2 or more offenses in the last year and you're looking at a $1000 and up to 60 days in the clink
If you're unable to move over a lane you need to drastically slow your speed down.
Good luck avoiding those potholes and remember to Move Over when you see anyone on the shoulder of the road or disabled in a lane. Everybody wants to get home safe at the end of the day.