CAA South Central Ontario is calling on residents to cast their votes and identify the most deteriorated, unsafe roads in the province as it opens its annual “worst roads” campaign.
The initiative aims to spotlight roads in dire need of repair and advocate for improvements to ensure safer travel for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
According to Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice president of government and community relations at CAA South Central Ontario, a significant portion of the community feels road maintenance efforts are not enough.
“Our research shows that 65% of members don't feel enough is being done to fix the roads,” Di Felice said.
“This is causing a variety of concerning driving behaviours, including swerving to avoid potholes, slowing down for bad spots, and some even changing their route altogether to avoid a bad road.”
The financial impact on vehicle owners is notable, with average repair costs due to poor road conditions reaching $852.
Despite 84% of CAA members expressing worry over road safety and 42% having experienced vehicle damage from subpar roads, the majority shoulder repair costs personally rather than filing insurance claims.
Di Felice highlighted the broader economic pressures exacerbating the issue.
“Either because of affordability or availability, many people are holding on to their cars a little longer these days; the last thing they want is expensive repair bills on an already stretched household budget,” she said.
“While inflation rates are cooling, many of us are dealing with a higher cost of living, making the investment in roads and supporting infrastructure more important than ever.”
Since its inception in 2003, the CAA Worst Roads campaign has influenced policy and budgetary decisions, ensuring road repairs and improvements receive the attention they require.
Nadia Todorova, executive director of the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO), echoed support for the campaign.
“RCCAO is a proud partner and supporter of this year's CAA Worst Roads advocacy campaign, giving Ontarians a platform to raise awareness about the state of vital road infrastructure in their communities,” she said.
Ontarians are encouraged to participate in the nomination process through April 19 at www.caaworstroads.com. The top 10 worst roads, as determined by the public’s votes, will subsequently be announced.
CAA South Central Ontario is a member-based organization that provides services in automotive, road safety, and advocacy. It represents over 2.5 million members and has been an advocate for safe and sustainable travel for over a century.
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