What to do about holes in the road

DRIVERS tired of avoiding potholes this winter can report road safety issues to be fixed.

Greater Bendigo is connected by a mix of city and state managed roads and where road issues are reported and who repairs them depends on the type of road the pothole is.

Arterial roads and freeways, such as the Calder Freeway, McIvor Highway, or Bendigo-Eaglehawk Road are managed by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Potholes on these roads can be reported by going to the VicRoads via report a road issue portal on their website.

Local roads like Lansell Street or sub-arterial roads such as Old Bridgewater Road are within jurisdiction of the municipality.

Drivers can report hazards on these roads by contacting the municipality directly.

The City of Greater Bendigo released a road management plan in November last year that outlines the maintenance process of road issues.

Once an issue is reported by a driver an inspection of the road is ordered and identified defects are actioned based on severity and size.

Typical responses include provision of safety barriers and warning signs, temporary changes to speed limits or temporary road closure.

Response times vary, but according to the road management plan, severe defects such as potholes greater that 300 millimetres wide and 50 millimetres deep on high traffic roads should be fixed within two weeks.

Jackie Pederson, RACV general manager said drivers should take care when approaching potholes.

“Some puddles can be hiding large potholes underneath them, so you should avoid driving over puddles where possible, and never drive through floodwaters,” she said.

Ms Pederson said drivers should also avoid swerving potholes as this could lead to collisions with other vehicles.

“When approaching an unavoidable pothole, grip your steering wheel firmly and keep your wheels straight. Slow down, but release your brakes before impact,” Ms Pederson said.

To report a municipal road issue call 1300 002 642 or email [email protected].