After enduring this winter’s harsh weather conditions, Michigan roads are left cracked and with potholes at every turn. Potholes are formed when water sets in the cracks of asphalt and cold weather freezes the water in the cracks. The water expands, breaking apart the asphalt even more, which creates bigger holes in the road.

As the weather continues to get warmer, the cracks and potholes will continue to get worse.

“They make me not want to drive on the road,” senior Evan Agattas said. “Hall Road is probably the worst, and the fact that it’s such a frequently used road doesn’t help the situation, either.”

All of the potholes dwelling in the asphalt make it a hazardous place for students driving, as well as everyone else on the road. Potholes can put holes in tires, damage wheel rims and misalign steering systems.

“My entire right headlight fell out because of the vibrations my car received from the potholes,” senior Olivia Ferrington said. “I went to take my boyfriend to work, and the road was covered with potholes. I couldn’t get over in the other lane to avoid them.”

Vehicle damage from potholes doesn’t only cost money to fix, but can also put drivers at risk for legal infractions. Senior Joey McNeil received a $125 ticket for a burnt out brake light. Multiple potholes shook McNeil’s car enough to make the light go out.

“I usually don’t worry about the potholes because I have a bigger car,” McNeil said. “The tires and rims of my car aren’t harmed by them, but apparently my break light couldn’t handle it.”

According to michigan.gov, the state of Michigan will consider paying pothole-related damages if someone files a claim to the Michigan Court of Claims. However, many claims are rejected.

Even with the possibility of government financial assistance to cover vehicle expenses, potholes cause many other hazards.

“You have to constantly dodge potholes in the road,” Agattas said. “They cause us to drive like drunk drivers.”