A massive sinkhole has taken out almost two lanes on Tireman Street in Detroit, Michigan’s west side, The Detroit Free Press reported. The unusually large sinkhole was caused by a failing sewer pipe underneath the street, though it is still unknown why the sewer pipe failed. To remedy the situation, workers will send a camera down, into the pipe, to see what caused the breakage, fix the breakage, and then fix the road. Until then, drivers will have to avoid the area. Luckily, no reports of sewer leakage or backups in homes have been reported so far.
This sinkhole comes as a surprise to Detroit residents who have been experiencing an overall kind winter. The unusually warm temperatures have been kind to Detroit sewer workers, but accidents like this are a haunting reminder of the polar vortex two winters ago, in which the workers had to handle more than 2,000 water main breaks. City officials are urging drivers to use caution in the Detroit and Metro Detroit areas in case there are any more road issues.
It is important for drivers, especially in cities such as Detroit which are known for having poor roads, to be especially careful when driving in metropolitan areas. In the winter, drivers should be especially careful, because roads are more susceptible to breakage, due to ice getting in cracks and expanding, water main breaks, and other winter-related issues. In cities like Detroit, Michigan and Flint, Michigan, it is also harder for road crews to get to poor road conditions in a quick manner, leaving drivers at further risk. Drivers should always scan the road in front of them for potholes and debris. And of course, if the winter conditions are too dangerous, it is better to stay indoors rather than risk your life or the lives of others by going out in treacherous conditions.
Safety is always important, but sometimes winter weather conditions foster accidents. If you have been injured in an auto accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of automotive collisions receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.