New Jersey drivers lament road conditions, tough commutes in AAA survey

A new report by AAA finds drivers are becoming more concerned about congestion and safety because of deteriorating road conditions in New Jersey.

Nearly half of Garden State drivers surveyed said their commute has gotten worse over the past two years, and 31 percent rate their local roadways as poor.

Old Bridge resident Michele Mount said she’s had plenty of problems during her daily commute to Hamilton.

“I had a motorist hit me because they were avoiding bad roads and winded up rear ending me because they swerved and hit me,” Mount said. “I had a truck pick up a rock and hit my windshield and, unfortunately, the windshield needed to be replaced. Then I also had the privilege of hitting a pothole, which caused me to get a new tire.”

Tracy Noble with AAA said deteriorating roadways can be expensive.

“Costs for repairing damage caused by potholes can range from $50 for a simple wheel alignment to $600 for more expensive tires and wheels,” Noble said. “You could also incur costs of up to $2,500 for steering components and vehicle suspension that may also be impacted.”

Senate President Steve Sweeney, D-Gloucester, said the report highlights the importance of investing in the Transportation Trust Fund, which covers the cost of road and bridge repairs.

Sweeney said he has not yet had discussions with Gov. Chris Christie’s staff on how to replenish the fund that’s expected to be depleted by the end of June.