AAA Oklahoma Warns Of Possible Potholes As Snow Begins To Melt

As temperatures slowly rise and the snow melts, Tulsa roads might not be as safe as you think.

AAA Oklahoma said the aftermath of a snowstorm can have long-term effects on the streets. Potholes have ben forming all over Oklahoma, and they could cost you a lot of money. 

"This is historic," said Mark Madeja of AAA Oklahoma. "As the freeze and thaw continues, more potholes will be seen." 

Madeja said potholes form when moisture from ice or snow get in the cracks of the road, which then freeze and thaw out, causing the pavement to break. Madeja said if you're not careful, one of these potholes could be costly. 

"It will knock the car out of alignment, it will flatten the tire and cause it to pop. A rim could be bent. But then you start to get into areas where, if you have alloy wheels in your car and it bends that rim, you can be looking at $500," Madeja said.

AAA said Americans spend an average of $3 billion per year to repair pothole-related damages. Madeja said even though the snow is melting, it's best to take it slow on the roads because you might not see the new potholes. 

"The higher the rate of speed, the more chance of serious danger caused to the vehicle and hopefully not you the driver, but that's why the focus needs to stay completely on the road in front of you," Madeja said. “Watch where you're going."