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How To Get Potholes Fixed Fast In Tampa

Here is how to get potholes fixed fast in Tampa. This time of year, I swear I am dodging potholes everywhere I drive. The roads are so bad in and…

A road damaged by rain and snow, that is in need of maintenance. Broken asphalt pavement resulting in a pothole, dangerous to vehicles.
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Here is how to get potholes fixed fast in Tampa. This time of year, I swear I am dodging potholes everywhere I drive. The roads are so bad in and around the Tampa Bay area. Covered in potholes. It's hard to drive around them because there are so many. The city and county have so many to attend to, especially this time of year, but how do you get potholes fixed fast in Tampa? The reason we have so many is because of all the rain we get this time of year.

How Potholes Are Formed

Potholes are formed when the top layer of pavement and the material underneath can't support the traffic weight. Cracks start to form, then water seeps in and when the water can't escape, it starts to erode and fail. With all the rain we get here in the summer, it is no wonder our streets are full of potholes. Asphalt can also contribute to pothole formation because it expands in the heat and contracts in certain temperatures. This continual expansion and contraction can weaken the material over time, which can lead to cracks and potholes. 

What Potholes Can Do To Your Vehicle

Potholes can be a nightmare for drivers because of the damage they will do to your car. Driving over one of these can cause damage to the car's undercarriage, the exhaust system, steering and suspension components, and even the transmission and differential. It can also flatten tires instantly. It is best to avoid them, however, it is sometime impossible without getting into a wreck.

Report Roads That Need To Be Fixed

We have plenty of resources to get the potholes fixed. Every citizen is encouraged to report the slightest sign of cracks and potholes to the local authorities. Potholes and cracks can cause accidents on the roads.

One really cool program that the city of Tampa launched that helps fix potholes fast. They've already fixed 673 potholes last month in July and they are out everyday trying to repair roads until they can get completely resurfaced.

City of Tampa: Call (813) 274-3101 or online HERE

Hillsborough County: call (813) 274-3278  or online HERE

You can also try Public Works office at (813) 635-5400 or online HERE

Pinellas County: (727) 464-8900 or online  Pinellas County government website. 

If you live in Pinellas, you can visit the Pinellas County Public Works page to report potholes and other road issues. You can also call their office at (727) 464-8900.

You Can Get Reimbursed For Damage To Your Vehicle

Well, maybe. Not everyone can be reimbursed. There are a few rules. Hillsborough County must have had prior knowledge of the pothole in question in order for them to consider reimbursement to a resident for damages to their vehicle per Florida Statute 768.28 If no one has ever reported that pothole to Hillsborough County and they were not aware of its existence, they would not have had opportunity to correct or repair it.  You must also provide pictures of the pothole and it's location. To file a claim go to HCFLGov.net

6 Places You Can Go Off Roading in Tampa

When you hear people talk about Florida, most of the time it's about the beaches or the massive theme parks. It is no question that Florida has so many different options for outdoor activities, but what about if you want to get a little off grid and go off roading in Tampa? You're probably thinking you'd never need a 4X4 in Florida, but the swampland is home to some of the best trails in the country.

I recently bought a new Jeep and wanted to find some places where I could go off roading in Tampa. I'm sure you're familiar with a Jeep Wrangler, but it’s a vehicle that drives on all terrain (mud, sand, water, rocks etc). So if you are a guy, or girl, that likes out doors, woods, muddin', and driving through terrain, Jeeps are fun. I also like to paddle board and they are good beach vehicles. Plus you don’t need to wash them. The dirtier the better!

Off-roading in Tampa is great when you're looking to escape the heat, whether you're new to off-roading or are a seasoned pro. If you’re ready to take that Jeep off the beaches and hit some real terrain, we’ve got you covered. Pack up the jeep and a couple of buddies to find out what it’s all about.

Tampa has a few great spots close by that offer a beginner to intermediate experience. If the weather is right, you could be in for a more challenging experience gunning through miles of mud filled terrain! Just a few hours out of Tampa you can find an even more of a diverse selection of trails throughout the entire state thanks to the guys over at OnX. We are going to take you through a few of our favorite Tampa trails that are close to home and also give you those options for when you want to get a little bit more sideways.

Tampa MX

Located in Hillsborough Tampa MX is a great introduction into off roading motorsports. The trails are limited to quad and dirt bikes only, but if you're into watching racing, there are beginner level to pro races weekly.

Withlacoochee State Forest

With over 10 miles of mud filled terrain, The Withlacoochee State Forest is grat for a weekend adventure. There are sports to setup camp and the trails offer a bit of a challenge all within an hour of Tampa Bay. Be ready for some mud and deep roots!

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FR 46/Pats Island Road

With this trail you get a two in one combo. It is a two part trail that starts off pretty easy to get you ready to throw it in 4X4! The second half of this trail is packed with loose sand on top of hard rock with some deep roots so if you're looking for a challenge, this is it.

Dirty offroad car, SUV covered with mud on countryside road, Off-road tires,  offroad travel  and driving concept.Getty Royalty Free

Tread Lightly! Four Wheel Drive Way

This trail name speaks for itself. Tread Lightly! Four Wheel Drive Way is over 80 miles long and is the only trail in Florida to be given the Jeep Badge of Honor.  The trail can be done on stock vehicles, but be ready for some deep sand and mudholes. 

Back view of off-road racing car zipping along a country road.Getty Royalty Free

Gator Hole Throughway

With a little over 6 miles of trail, Gator Hole Throughway is one of the more difficult trails around. With tight turns, loose sand corners, and some steep ledges you'll want a little bit more clearance to take this one on to avoid some underbody damage!

dirt and muddy rural road during a jungle trip through bamboo forest in village at countryside after the rain.Getty Royalty Free

5 Mile Road Winter Garden

If you're looking for nothing but dirt roads, 5 Mile Road in Winter Garden is the perfect option. You can expect to burn through a few sharp turns while passing miles of farmland. Many adventurers finish off this trail watching the sunset.Dirty rural road goes through mixed European forest, natural background photo landscape