The “Road Crater” Lowdown: 🕳️ With Missouri’s wild temperature swings, potholes are an unfortunate part of life in LS. But you don’t have to just “drive around them.” Here is the local’s guide to taking action.
1. Who Do I Call? (The Reporting Cheat Sheet)
The first step to getting a road fixed is making sure the right people know about it.
- For City Streets: Use the LS Connect App (the fastest way) or call the Public Works department at 816-969-1800.
- For State Highways (291, 50, I-470, etc.): These fall under MoDOT. You can report these via their online “Report a Road Concern” form or by calling 1-888-ASK-MODOT.
2. The “Reimbursement Hack”
Did a pothole wreck your rims or pop a tire? You might be able to get the government to pay for it – but there’s a process.
The Golden Rules of Claims:
- Snap Photos Immediately: Take a picture of the pothole (be careful of traffic!) and the damage to your car right after it happens.
- Keep Your Receipts: You will almost always have to pay for the repair upfront and file for reimbursement later.
- File Quickly: Both the City and the State have strict timelines for filing a claim.
Where to File:
- City of Lee’s Summit Claims: Contact the Risk Management department at City Hall to request a formal claim form.
- MoDOT Claims: Visit the MoDOT Property Damage Claim page to start your request.
3. Pro-Tip: Safety First
If you hit a significant pothole, check your alignment. Even if the tire didn’t pop, a shaking steering wheel is a sign that the “crater” did some internal damage.