TDOT hopeful pothole situation will improve with warmer weather

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) -- It’s the problem drivers in the mid-state are facing, potholes.

Tennessee’s Department of Transportation said as temperatures warm up, they’re hopeful the situation gets better. Still, drivers want the ability to drive on roads that don’t break the bank in repairs.

TDOT said they have a multi-county approach to repaving and repairing the roads in need of some help. As this contract work ramps up, drivers want to see action as soon as possible.

“Like, my heart just ripped out of my chest. I was actually headed to an appointment to see my mom at her doctor's office. And I was late for the appointment because of that, (pothole),” said Tiffany Jordan, east Tennessee resident.

Jordan said her tires were covered under warranty but she still was out $150, because of a pothole she hit in February and she said she expects more from the state.

“I would expect with the southern hospitality that we have, they would be more willing and accommodating. But at this point, I don't even see that I will be reimbursed, but I'm not hurting, but for the others that are hurting, like that's sad,” she said.

Drivers like Jordan can submit a claim through the state.

Tennessee’s Department of treasury takes care of the claims but in a statement to Fox 17 News, the department tells us a third-party company is involved.

That company is CorVel Corportation. we’re told CorVel has been contracted with the state since January 2021.

In a Fox 17 News investigation, we discovered that over the past five years 99 % of claim were denied.

Hendersonville resident Jonathan Guenther says he is out $300 for a tire replacement. He filed a claim with the state and is waiting to hear back.

“I have not heard anything back from the state. I got an email confirming that I've filed with them, but I have not received anything else,” said Guenther.

The Department of Treasury said in an email their goal is to look into claims within one-to-two business days.

TDOT said they will continue working on I-40 west from Charlotte Pike to 46th Avenue until next Thursday and each paving day depends on the weather and asphalt plant operations.