The report ranked the Ocean State as the nation’s worst for road conditions after finding that 42% of Rhode Island’s roads are in poor condition, the highest percentage in the United States. Researchers said that places Rhode Island nearly 30% ahead of second-place Massachusetts and about 40% ahead of third-place New Jersey in overall roadway risk.
Rather than looking only at potholes, the analysis combined federal highway data with weather and climate information, including pavement quality, freeze-thaw cycles, road salt use, flooding, and extreme heat, to determine which states are toughest on vehicles.
The report also found Rhode Island drivers aren’t searching online for vehicle repair issues as often as drivers in many other states. Rhode Island ranked 41st for repair-related search interest, despite having the country’s highest roadway risk. Researchers said the state has one of the largest gaps in the nation between actual road conditions and driver awareness.
Across the country, freeze-thaw cycles were identified as the leading contributor to road damage in 29 states, accelerating cracks, potholes, and pavement deterioration. The study also noted that potholes alone are estimated to cost American drivers about $27 billion each year in vehicle repairs.
At the opposite end of the rankings, Florida was found to have the best overall road conditions, followed by Nevada. Massachusetts and New Jersey rounded out the top three states with the most challenging roads.
Do you agree with the rankings? With so many major highways under construction, have you noticed Rhode Island’s roads getting any better?
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