In some states, it feels like construction work on local highways is a constant. While others badly need repairs. If you're going to be traveling any time soon, it's important to know which roads to avoid.
Every driver thinks their state may have the biggest issues with potholes or crumbling surface streets. However, only drivers driving across the country know for sure.
Before you head out on the road for another road trip, here are the states that have the worst and best roads in the country, according to QuoteWizard, so you can avoid throwing money away on unnecessary car repairs.
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Worst: Maryland
Maryland is the fifth worst state when it comes to roads, with around 27% of roads in the state deemed non-acceptable.
Driving through Maryland might make you feel like you need to save money on car insurance and make sure you're fully covered.
However, drivers in the state pay around $356 annually to fix infrastructure, which puts Maryland in the bottom 10 when it comes to spending per motorist by state.
Worst: Connecticut
Connecticut is one of two New England states in the top five for worst roads in the country.
The small state has 34% of its roads deemed non-acceptable, packing a big punch to drivers’ wallets. The state spends around $676 annually per motorist to fix the roads and infrastructure.
Worst: West Virginia
West Virginia may have the third worst roads in the country, but the state is spending money to repair the issues.
Drivers in the state pay around $723 annually to fix the state’s infrastructure, which is equal to about 19% of the state’s budget.
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Worst: Mississippi
Mississippi has the second worst roads in the country. Around 27% of them are in need of repair and are deemed non-acceptable.
The state’s drivers each pay about $820 a year to fix the roads, putting it in the top five when it comes to cost per driver in each state to fix their roads.
Worst: Rhode Island
Again, you may need to find ways to save money on car insurance if you’re driving on the roads in Rhode Island. It may be the country’s smallest state, but it has the biggest issue with roads.
Around 50% of the roads in the state are in poor condition, and repairs cost drivers about $823 per year. That ranks it as the third highest state in terms of costs for drivers to repair road issues.
Best: Nebraska
Nebraska checks in as the state with the fifth-best roads in the country.
The Cornhusker State has only 11% of its roads deemed non-acceptable and 5% of its bridges considered in poor condition. Each driver in the state pays around $466 annually to maintain the infrastructure.
Best: Iowa
Another state that’s known for its corn also has well-maintained roads. Iowans pay around $362 per year per driver to maintain roads and bridges in the state.
In exchange, Iowa has 8% of its roads and 10% of its bridges considered to be in non-acceptable condition.
Best: Idaho
In the Potato State, drivers can expect to pay $427 per motorist each year in order to maintain their roads and bridges.
Only 4% of the state’s roads and 5% of its bridges are deemed non-acceptable for drivers to use.
Best: North Dakota
North Dakota is one of the most northern of the Midwest states and one of the best when it comes to roads.
The state checks in with the second-best roads in the country overall with 6% of its roads and 5% of its bridges landing in the non-acceptable category. Each driver pays around $479 annually to maintain roads.
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Best: Wyoming
Wyoming takes the top spot when it comes to the best roads in the United States. You may want to use your credit card and save on gas if you drive to Yellowstone or Grand Tetons National Parks on safe and smooth roads.
The state has only 5% of its roads and 7% of its bridges deemed non-acceptable. Drivers pay around $356 annually to have well-maintained roads.
Bottom line
Keep an eye out for any lingering construction as you navigate the roads, especially in areas that still need repair. Also, be extra cautious when driving through states that made the list for having poor roads.
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