THUNDER BAY — Judging by the number of potholes on Thunder Bay streets this year, the city might expect to get some nominations in CAA's annual Worst Roads in Ontario campaign.
Voting has just started.
The freeze/thaw cycle that wreaks havoc on asphalt has left drivers dodging holes on roads all over the city.
Each year, the Canadian Automobile Association conducts an online poll inviting motorists to submit nominations.
The results are then broken down by region.
Jeff Walker, the CEO of CAA North & East Ontario, says research has shown that almost three-quarters of Ontarians vent about the state of the province's roads to their spouses, friends or co-workers, but not always to local government officials.
According to the CAA, damage to a vehicle caused by a pothole can range from $300 to more than $6,000.
"As the inventory of vehicles continues to remain scarce due to the global semiconductor chip shortage, more people are now trying to hold on to their cars longer," Walker noted. "Not only can poor roads cause damage to vehicles, but they also contribute heavily to the wear and tear on tires and increased fuel consumption."
Nominations can be cast until April 19.
Participants get a chance to win a year's worth of free gas.
