The New York Department of Transportation has a new machine to combat rising complaints about potholes.

The Pothole Killer is a massive pothole-filling machine that?s trying to put a dent in the problem. DOT engineer Roy Reissig says the Pothole Killer is safer for workers because the controls are run from inside the vehicle.

Towns and villages say they?ve been overloaded with complaints about potholes because of the cold weather. Roads contract and expand as the temperature changes, causing rifts and holes. Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto says the next few weeks will be peak pothole season.

Mechanics say keeping vehicle tires inflated properly is the best way to protect cars from damage if they go over potholes.

If a car is damaged by a pothole that is already on the state or town list waiting to be fixed, the driver could be eligible for reimbursement. Residents can call 1-800-POTHOLE to report pothole incidents.