It's pretty clear to most drivers that roads in the United States, especially the interstate highway system, are in disrepair. Potholes and uneven road surfaces are the most obvious problems, but all over the country roads are crumbling and bridges are in danger of falling down. As the roads get worse, the potential for accidents increases, and drivers may have more flat tires, broken axles and cracked windshields, leading to more insurance claims. And as we've all learned, the newer the vehicle, the more costly it is to repair.

To provide an overview of the status of the country's infrastructure, every four years the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) provides a comprehensive assessment of 16 major categories in ASCE's Infrastructure Report Card. Using a simple A to F school report card format, the Report Card examines current infrastructure conditions and needs, assigning grades and making recommendations to raise them. In addition to providing a national report card, ASCE prepares state and regional report cards, on a rolling basis, following the same methods and grading system.

A — Exceptional, fit for the future