Illinois Drivers: Why You Shouldn’t Fill Potholes on Your Own

Potholes are one of the most frustrating parts of driving, and anyone who has spent time on the roads around Illinois knows there are plenty of them.

Have you ever had the urge to go to the store, buy a bucket of asphalt, and take matters into your own hands?  We're dodging the same potholes every day, might as well fill them since the city won't, right?!

Illinois Drivers: Why You Shouldn't Fill Potholes on Your Own

Read More: Look At The Worst Potholes In Rockford Illinois

Well, just a few days ago, an 18-year-old man in Michigan went viral after filling dangerous potholes on Cherry Hill Road in Dearborn Heights himself.  He bought cold patch asphalt from Home Depot and got to work, a move that earned praise online from everyone who drives.

But as tempting as it might be, Illinois officials strongly advise against filling potholes on your own without city consent (and for good reason).  First, there's liability.  If you fill a pothole and a car gets damaged, or worst, someone gets hurt, you could be held legally responsible.  Even a well-intentioned repair can create uneven surfaces or hidden hazards that make accidents more likely.

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Second, there are safety risks.  Cold patch asphalt isn't as durable as what crews use, and improper application can make the pothole worse or create new problems for other drivers.  You also have to consider traffic while working.. standing in the middle of a busy road to fill a hole is dangerous!

Related: Illinois Woman Plunges Knee Deep Into Giant Pothole, Loses Linguine

City crews have the equipment and experience to do the job correctly.  It might be frustrating when potholes don't get filled right away, but it'll eventually get fixed.  Hopefully.

Rockford residents, you can use the Pothole Hotline at 779-348-7260 or use the city's online portal to report a pothole.