Pothole Reporting in Indianapolis: What You Need to Know

Potholes are an all-too-common sight on Indianapolis roads. They appear after harsh winters, heavy rain, or simply due to wear-and-tear on our streets. Beyond being an eyesore, potholes can be a real hazard—damaging vehicles, disrupting traffic, and increasing the risk of accidents.

But here’s the good news: Indianapolis residents can make a difference. By reporting potholes, you can contribute to safer roads for everyone. Read on to learn why pothole reporting matters, how to do it, and the resources available to both residents and business owners.

Call 317-549-1833 For Professional Pothole Repair Service in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-549-1833 For Professional Pothole Repair Service in Indianapolis Indiana

Why Pothole Reporting Matters

Potholes don’t just cause minor inconveniences—they can lead to costly car repairs, wasted time, and even pose serious safety risks for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Ignoring them can make roads more hazardous and damage worse over time. Here’s why taking the time to report a pothole in your area is so important:

Vehicle Damage

Driving over potholes can cause significant damage to your car. Common problems include:

  • Tire damage like punctures or blowouts.
  • Wheel alignment issues that compromise steering and stability.
  • Suspension problems that reduce your vehicle’s smoothness and control.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that pothole-related repairs cost U.S. drivers about $26 billion annually. That’s a price no one wants to pay!

Traffic Safety

Potholes create unsafe driving conditions. Swerving to avoid one can lead to accidents, especially on busy streets or highways. Unreported potholes also pose a risk for pedestrians and cyclists trying to share the road.

Improved City Infrastructure

Proactively reporting potholes helps city officials address problems quickly and efficiently. When residents report issues, they provide crucial data that helps prioritize road repair projects, freeing up resources for long-term improvements.

Your voice matters. When you take the time to report a pothole, you’re actively improving the quality of Indianapolis roads.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Report Potholes in Indianapolis

If you’ve encountered a pothole on your daily commute, don’t just drive over it and hope someone else reports it—here’s how you can take action:

Step 1: Gather Details 

Before filing a pothole report, gather the necessary information:

  • The exact location of the pothole (be as specific as possible, such as “at the intersection of 96th St. and Hague Road”).
  • An estimate of the size and depth of the pothole.
  • Any additional comments about the pothole’s impact on traffic or safety.

Step 2: Submit Your Report Online or by Phone

The city of Indianapolis provides a few convenient ways to report potholes:

  • Use the Request Indy Online Portal: Visit the official Indy.gov Request Indy portal and follow the instructions to submit a report.
  • Call Indy 311: Dial 311 to speak directly with a city representative, who will log your report and provide guidance.
  • Download the Mobile App: Download the Request Indy app on your smartphone for an easy, on-the-go reporting option.

Step 3: Follow Up

After submitting your report, you’ll receive a reference number. Keep this handy in case you need to follow up on the status of your claim with the city.

Reporting potholes doesn’t just resolve an immediate issue—it also helps the city allocate services and improve road repair processes effectively.

Resources for Indianapolis Residents

If you’re navigating pothole-related challenges, Indianapolis offers a range of helpful resources:

  • Department of Public Works: The operations division is the official hub for street and alley issues, including pothole repair requests and updates.
  • Reimbursement for Vehicle Damage: If a pothole has caused damage to your vehicle, you may be able to file a claim with the city for reimbursement. Detailed instructions are available on the Indy.gov website.
  • Road Repair Updates: Stay informed about ongoing construction or maintenance projects on the city’s road construction page.

These resources empower residents to participate actively in maintaining safe and smooth roads throughout Indianapolis.

Commercial Paving Repair for Business Owners and Developers

Potholes don’t just plague public roads—they also show up in parking lots, sidewalks, and private properties, causing issues in areas you might not expect. For business owners and real estate developers, potholes can create more than just an inconvenience; they can harm vehicles, create safety hazards for pedestrians, and even lead to liability issues.

Beyond physical damage, poorly maintained surfaces can send the wrong message to customers and tenants, ultimately damaging your brand reputation and impacting your bottom line. Taking proactive steps to address potholes is essential for maintaining both safety and professionalism.

Why Address Potholes on Business Properties?

☑ Customer Safety

Cracked pavement and potholes pose significant risks for customers and employees, making it easy to trip, fall, or damage vehicles. Maintaining smooth surfaces helps create a safer environment for everyone.

☑ Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. A well-maintained property with smooth, pothole-free pavement is more inviting and professional, attracting more visitors, customers, and potential tenants.

☑ Reduced Liability

Neglecting damaged pavement increases the risk of accidents, which can lead to costly injury claims or lawsuits. Prompt repairs not only protect people but also safeguard your business from legal and financial troubles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting Potholes

▷ How do I file a claim for pothole damage in Indianapolis?

Who is responsible for repairing potholes on private property? Visit the Indy.gov Pothole FAQ page to find answers to these and other common questions.

▷ What is the app for reporting potholes?

The Indy 311 app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

▷ What are the hours of operation for Indy 311?

Indy 311 operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except on city-observed holidays.

▷ How do I file a complaint with the city of Indianapolis?

The city of Indianapolis offers multiple ways to contact them, including through the official website, by phone, or in person at various locations throughout the city. Visit Indy.gov’s Contact Us page for more information.

Conclusion

Pothole reporting in Indianapolis isn’t just a civic responsibility—it’s a step toward creating safer, more efficient communities. By taking proactive measures to report potholes, use local resources, or repair your business property’s infrastructure, each of us can help improve the driving experience in our city.

Do your part and make Indianapolis a safer place to live and drive. For business paving services, reach out to a trusted professional. Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pothole repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer asphalt and concrete work, including sealcoating services and large batch/small batch ready mix concrete delivery.

Related Posts:

The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Pothole Repair Options
The Impact of Potholes on Your Parking Lot: How to Address and Prevent Them
Paving the Way to Safer Streets: How Indianapolis Residents Can Request Road Repairs