What is the expected effect of failing to properly maintain highway drainage?

Failing to properly maintain highway drainage can lead to several detrimental effects on the road's surface and overall infrastructure. When drainage systems are not adequately managed, water can accumulate on the highway, leading to a variety of issues.

One significant consequence of poor drainage is the formation of potholes. Water that seeps into cracks in the pavement can freeze and expand during cold weather, causing the cracks to widen and ultimately leading to the creation of potholes as the road material is displaced. This not only damages the pavement but also creates hazards for vehicles and can lead to increased maintenance costs.

In addition to potholes, the excess water can weaken the base layers of the pavement structure, leading to additional pavement damage over time. Uncontrolled water can erode the subgrade and weaken the supporting layers, leading to further complications like surface cracking, rutting, and ultimately a need for costly repairs or complete resurfacing.

Therefore, the failure to maintain highway drainage directly correlates with different forms of surface damage and deterioration, reinforcing why this answer is the most accurate choice regarding the expected effects of inadequate drainage maintenance.