National Pothole Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about road safety and the impact of potholes on transportation infrastructure. It serves as a call to action for better road maintenance and community involvement in reporting these hazardous road conditions.
Quick Facts
When is it: January 15th annually
Tagged as: Road Safety Awareness Day
What’s the hashtag: #NationalPotholeDay
When was it founded: 2018
Who founded it: Street Repairs in partnership with Mr. Pothole (UK)
History of National Pothole Day
The term “pothole” originated in the 1400s when potters would dig holes in roads to access clay deposits. The day itself was established to address growing concerns about road safety and maintenance costs. Since its inception, it has gained support from various organizations, including the Road Surface Treatments Association and the Cyclists’ Touring Club.
Timeline
- 2018: First official celebration launched in the UK
- 2020: Received recognition in UK Parliament
- 2022: Expanded to include global participation
- 2023: Gained significant social media presence
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January | 15 |
| 2025 | January | 15 |
| 2026 | January | 15 |
| 2027 | January | 15 |
| 2028 | January | 15 |
How It’s Observed
Communities participate through pothole reporting, social media campaigns, and local advocacy efforts. Some creative celebrations include pothole photography contests and awareness walks.
Fun Facts About Potholes
- The average pothole repair costs around $300 for motorists
- Michigan has the highest number of pothole-related searches
- Potholes form due to the freeze-thaw cycle
- Americans spend nearly $3 billion annually on pothole-related vehicle damages
Quiz
- When is National Pothole Day celebrated?
- Who established National Pothole Day?
- What causes potholes to form?
- How much do Americans spend on pothole damage annually?
(Answers: January 15th; Street Repairs & Mr. Pothole; Freeze-thaw cycle; $3 billion)
FAQs
Q: How do I report a pothole?
A: Contact your local authority or use dedicated reporting apps.
Q: What damage can potholes cause?
A: Vehicle damage, accidents, and potential injuries to cyclists and pedestrians.
Importance of National Pothole Day
The day highlights the critical need for road maintenance, public safety, and infrastructure investment. It empowers citizens to take action and encourages authorities to address road maintenance issues proactively.
Related
- Road Safety Awareness Month
- Infrastructure Week
- World Car-Free Day
- National Road Safety Week
- Transportation Safety Day