It’s no secret that potholes are causing chaos for drivers all over the UK. Recent data from car insurance experts at Quotezone found that a whopping 27% of drivers didn’t even know they could claim for pothole-related damages. And with potholes popping up faster than they can be fixed, the number of incidents is on the rise, with a staggering 40% increase year on year in England alone.
When it comes to dealing with pothole damage, a survey revealed that 83% of drivers end up shelling out their own cash for repairs, while only 6% actually make a claim through their insurance company. Not many people are aware that they can seek compensation from their local council or road authority, which may be due to the fact that some councils reject the majority of claims they receive. This could be attributed to a controversial rule from the Highways Act 1980, allowing councils to turn down claims if they were not aware of the pothole’s existence.
According to experts, it’s crucial for motorists to report potholes in their area to increase the chances of receiving compensation. Gathering as much information as possible, such as witness statements and evidence from a mechanic, can help support a claim. It’s also important to document the location and size of the pothole, with a minimum depth requirement of 40mm. By being proactive in reporting potholes and following the correct procedures, drivers can improve their chances of a successful claim.
