Watch out for potholes after the ice storm. Here’s how to report them in Fort Worth

Expect more potholes on Fort Worth streets as thawing ice from this week’s winter storm makes existing cracks worse.

The city of Fort Worth fills about 80 to 100 potholes per day, but plans to ramp up to more than 300 per day early next week, according to Juan Cadena, who heads up street maintenance for the city’s transportation and public works department.

Americans spent $26.5 billion fixing pothole-related car damage in 2021, according AAA.

Cadena wrote in an email that his department will conduct a “pothole roundup” to identify areas of the city with the most need.

The is usually able to fill potholes within 48 hours of them being reported, he wrote. He encouraged residents to call the city at 817-392-1234 or use the MyFW app to report them.

Older asphalt roads usually have the most potholes, but Cadena stressed the roundup will be a citywide effort.

How to protect yourself from potholes

Potholes do the most damage to tires and suspensions. Repairs cost $250 to $1,000, according to AAA.

Here’s a few ways AAA recommends protecting yourself and your car:

• Keep tires inflated and check the tread at least once a month.

• Check your vehicle’s suspension to make sure it is not pulling to the left or right.

• Watch out for standing water or puddles that might hide potholes.

• If you can’t avoid a pothole, slow down gradually and keep your wheel straight to minimize damage.