How To Get Potholes Fixed Fast In Tampa
Here is how to get potholes fixed fast in Tampa. This time of year, I swear I am dodging potholes everywhere I drive. The roads are so bad in and around the Tampa Bay area. Covered in potholes. It’s hard to drive around them because there are so many. The city and county have so many to attend to, especially this time of year, but how do you get potholes fixed fast in Tampa? The reason we have so many is because of all the rain we get this time of year.
How Potholes Are Formed
Potholes are formed when the top layer of pavement and the material underneath can’t support the traffic weight. Cracks start to form, then water seeps in and when the water can’t escape, it starts to erode and fail. With all the rain we get here in the summer, it is no wonder our streets are full of potholes. Asphalt can also contribute to pothole formation because it expands in the heat and contracts in certain temperatures. This continual expansion and contraction can weaken the material over time, which can lead to cracks and potholes.
What Potholes Can Do To Your Vehicle
Potholes can be a nightmare for drivers because of the damage they will do to your car. Driving over one of these can cause damage to the car’s undercarriage, the exhaust system, steering and suspension components, and even the transmission and differential. It can also flatten tires instantly. It is best to avoid them, however, it is sometime impossible without getting into a wreck.
Report Roads That Need To Be Fixed
We have plenty of resources to get the potholes fixed. Every citizen is encouraged to report the slightest sign of cracks and potholes to the local authorities. Potholes and cracks can cause accidents on the roads.
One really cool program that the city of Tampa launched that helps fix potholes fast. They’ve already fixed 673 potholes last month in July and they are out everyday trying to repair roads until they can get completely resurfaced.
City of Tampa: Call (813) 274-3101 or online HERE
Hillsborough County: call (813) 274-3278 or online HERE
You can also try Public Works office at (813) 635-5400 or online HERE
Pinellas County: (727) 464-8900 or online Pinellas County government website.
If you live in Pinellas, you can visit the Pinellas County Public Works page to report potholes and other road issues. You can also call their office at (727) 464-8900.
You Can Get Reimbursed For Damage To Your Vehicle
Well, maybe. Not everyone can be reimbursed. There are a few rules. Hillsborough County must have had prior knowledge of the pothole in question in order for them to consider reimbursement to a resident for damages to their vehicle per Florida Statute 768.28 If no one has ever reported that pothole to Hillsborough County and they were not aware of its existence, they would not have had opportunity to correct or repair it. You must also provide pictures of the pothole and it’s location. To file a claim go to HCFLGov.net
6 Places You Can Go Off Roading in Tampa
Withlacoochee State Forest
With over 10 miles of mud filled terrain, The Withlacoochee State Forest is grat for a weekend adventure. There are sports to setup camp and the trails offer a bit of a challenge all within an hour of Tampa Bay. Be ready for some mud and deep roots!
FR 46/Pats Island Road
With this trail you get a two in one combo. It is a two part trail that starts off pretty easy to get you ready to throw it in 4X4! The second half of this trail is packed with loose sand on top of hard rock with some deep roots so if you’re looking for a challenge, this is it.
Tread Lightly! Four Wheel Drive Way
This trail name speaks for itself. Tread Lightly! Four Wheel Drive Way is over 80 miles long and is the only trail in Florida to be given the Jeep Badge of Honor. The trail can be done on stock vehicles, but be ready for some deep sand and mudholes.
Gator Hole Throughway
With a little over 6 miles of trail, Gator Hole Throughway is one of the more difficult trails around. With tight turns, loose sand corners, and some steep ledges you’ll want a little bit more clearance to take this one on to avoid some underbody damage!
5 Mile Road Winter Garden
If you’re looking for nothing but dirt roads, 5 Mile Road in Winter Garden is the perfect option. You can expect to burn through a few sharp turns while passing miles of farmland. Many adventurers finish off this trail watching the sunset.
