Roads are not immortal. Pavement can withstand the constant strain of multi-ton vehicles driving over it, yet the combination of weather, snow plows, salt for melting ice and other variables all lend a hand in the deterioration of a road. Staying on top of patches while replacing significantly damaged roadways is important, yet not all states are able to address these issues on a regular basis due to one reason or another. These are America’s worst roads, so if you’re planning on visiting the areas in question, make sure to practice extra caution to stay safe.
Washington D.C.
Say what you will about the politics in D.C., but the roadways are worse here than anywhere else in the country as 92% of the urban roads are in “poor” condition. Due to the continually changing temperatures, roads tend to crack.
California
You might be surprised to see a state with sunny weather on the list. With 51% of the roads in poor condition, California struggles with roadway damage caused by earthquakes.
Rhode Island
The smaller state of Rhode Island doesn’t generate the tax revenue of larger states, making it difficult to pay for potential repairs. Thus, 45% of roads are seen as “poor.”
Michigan/New Jersey
These two states tie with 40% of roads seen as poor. Heavy snow plows damaging the roads are a major culprit.
Crumbling roadways can damage vehicles and put both riders and pedestrians in danger. With damaged roadways proving to be a liability, if you own a roadway, drive or parkway, you need to do what you can to repair any kind of damage.
