Report: Oklahomans losing over $2,000 per year due to poor roads

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — A new report shows that Oklahoma drivers are losing over $2,000 a year due to poor road conditions.

Oklahomans spend nearly 50 hours a week on the road. According to a report by the research group TRIP, 40 percent of major roads and highways in Oklahoma City are in poor condition with nine percent of bridges structurally deficient.

"The findings are beneficial to me as a director. It shows we're making progress but it gives an independent look at where we are," Oklahoma Department of Transportation Executive Director Mike Patterson said.

Driving on deteriorated roads is costing you. Each Oklahoma driver loses nearly $2,200 a year which equals out to $5 billion statewide.TRIP reports the costs come in accelerate vehicle depreciation, additional repairs and increased fuel consumption and tire wear.

"These are organizations that ultimately either state or local governments are going to invite to come and work on these projects," Trip Head of Policy and Research Rocky Moretti said.

TRIP reports they get their data from the Federal Highway Administration and ODOT but despite today's findings, Oklahoma's roads have made a vast improvement since 2004.

"Right now, when critical decisions in terms of the future of the state's transportation system are being made this is a helpful time for our report to come out and provide the latest information so decision makers have a base for making those decisions," Moretti said.