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Drivers asked to keep an eye out for potholes

WEST MICHIGAN (NEWSCHANNEL 3) - With spring weather around the corner, potholes are popping up all across West Michigan, and counties are being proactive when it comes to fixing the problem.

In Allegan County, for instance, there's no shortage of work to be done at Maplewood Auto--it's one of their busiest times of the year.

"Maintenance, mechanical; you know, people call up and say my car doesn't have any heat," said owner Joe Langejans. "That's what happens when the weather gets cold."

Rough roads have many car owners lined up for repairs as potholes pop up all across the state.

"It's harder on suspension components, ball rods, tight ends, struts, and shocks," Langejans said.

A study shows that Michigan drivers pay more than $350 per year in unnecessary repairs as a result of rough roadways.

Now, West Michigan counties are making it easier for drivers to report potholes in an effort to fix them sooner.

In Allgean, Van Buren, and Ottawa Counties, it's best to contact the road commission.

For state roads--ones that start with an M, or an I, or a U.S.--you'll need to contact M-DOT or head to their website.

In some places, like the City of Holland, there are apps that allow you to snap a photo of the pothole and report it right away.

The Michigan Transportation Team is also hosting a month-long contest, handing out $500 per week to a driver who needs repairs because of potholes.

While there's no solution to wear and tear on your car, mechanics say regular maintenance is key to catching a small fix before it grows.

For more on how to report potholes, or to learn about the pothole pocketbook contest for yourself, just click here.