How to Claim for Pothole Damage as Cases Surge in 2024
Pothole damage claims are rising sharply, prompting advice on how to claim from councils effectively
Pothole Damage, Claims, Insurance, Local Councils, UK
City: London. So, it looks like pothole claims are on the rise, huh? In fact, they shot up by 14% just this year alone! That’s a whopping 62% increase over the last two years. Crazy, right? According to Admiral Car Insurance, 2024 is shaping up to be a record year for these claims.
The government is stepping in, promising to fix an extra million potholes each year. They’re also putting £500 million into local road maintenance for 2025-26. It’s about time, if you ask me!
But here’s the kicker: the average cost of pothole damage has jumped by 20% this year. That’s likely because cars are getting more high-tech and repairs are just getting pricier overall.
Adam Gavin from Admiral pointed out that January 15 is National Pothole Day. He says anyone who drives knows that awful ‘clunk’ when you hit a pothole. It’s not just annoying; it can really mess up your car.
Even hitting a pothole at a slow speed can damage your tyres, wheels, and even your steering. If you think you’ve hit a bad one, check your car as soon as it’s safe. Snap some photos of the pothole and any damage to your vehicle. It’s smart to get a mechanic to take a look too.
If you have comprehensive insurance, claiming for pothole damage should be pretty straightforward. Just keep in mind it might affect your no claims bonus. If you don’t have that coverage, you might be out of luck.
But don’t worry! You can still try to claim compensation from whoever is responsible for the road. Just know it can be a bit tricky. Admiral even put together a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
Potholes form when water seeps into cracks in the road, freezes, and expands. When it warms up, the water evaporates, leaving gaps that traffic just makes worse.
So, if you find yourself in this situation, here’s what to do: First, gather your evidence. Note where and when you hit the pothole, and snap a photo if you can. Then, get your car checked out and get a written report from the mechanic.
Next, figure out who’s responsible for the road. Local councils usually handle smaller roads, but you’ll need to prove they were negligent. This can be tough, so ask for maintenance records to back up your claim.
Once you know who to contact, file a formal claim. Include all your info, like the mechanic’s report and any photos. If the council makes you an offer, see if it covers your costs. If not, don’t hesitate to push back.
If they reject your claim, you can seek legal advice, but be prepared for a lengthy process. It might only be worth it if the repair costs are significant.
And remember, if you have comprehensive insurance, you can claim for pothole damage. Just weigh the costs against your excess and how it might affect your no claims bonus.