After a harsh winter, potholes are an increasing problem along Illinois roadways. Collisions can cause damage to cars such as flat tires or misalignment. Even steering around them can lead to erratic driving. AAA spokeswoman Beth Mosher says a recent survey shows there’s a consensus on the impact of these road hazards.
“The majority of Illinois drivers don’t think that our roads and bridges are well-funded but they don’t want to pay for the additional funding that’s likely needed to maintain and build better roads,” she said.
Mosher says lawmakers already have several plans to alleviate the state’s road problems, but they can’t be put into action unless state government finds new sources of funding.
Gas prices are also expected to slowly rise this season. Average state gas prices rose by about ten cents this week, and Mosher says drivers should expect this trend until summer.
“Refineries are in a season where they’re preparing for a summer blend of gasoline," she said. "So there’s a lot of maintenance that happens. Which is then pushing prices at the pump higher."
Mosher emphasizes that this is a seasonal trend, and that no particular economic event is raising gas prices beyond what is expected.