Who Should Pay if You Hit One of the UK's Two Million Potholes?

Potholes are an all too common sight on UK roads, with councils reporting millions of craters every year. These hazards can cause significant damage to vehicles, leading to costly repairs. The big question that arises for drivers is: who should foot the bill?

Understanding Pothole Damage

Driving through a pothole can result in various types of damage to a vehicle, such as:

• Tyre damage
• Wheel alignment issues
• Suspension problems
• Body damage

These damages can lead to hefty repair costs for drivers, which is why understanding liability is crucial.

Who is Responsible?

Typically, the responsibility for the repair and maintenance of roads lies with local councils or highway authorities. If your vehicle is damaged by a pothole, you might be able to claim compensation from the responsible body. However, the process can be complex.

Making a Claim

To make a claim, follow these steps:

1. Collect Evidence: Take photos of the pothole, your vehicle's damage, and note down its exact location and the time of the incident.
2. Report the Pothole: Report the pothole to the local council or appropriate highway authority. This can usually be done online.
3. Submit a Claim: Visit the council's website to find information on how to submit a claim. Provide all the collected evidence along with any repair invoices.
4. Await a Response: The council will investigate your claim and make a decision.

Insurance Coverage

Your vehicle's insurance policy might cover pothole damage. Comprehensive coverages often include such incidents, but it's essential to check the specifics of your policy. However, remember that making a claim on your insurance might affect your no-claims discount and result in an excess payment.

Prevention Tips

While it's not always possible to avoid potholes, here are some tips to minimise the risk:

• Stay alert and look out for potholes, especially during adverse weather conditions.
• Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front to get better visibility of the road ahead.
• Ensure your tyres are properly inflated to absorb minor impacts better.

By understanding the process of making a claim and taking preventive measures, you can better handle the frustrating reality of potholes on UK roads.

For more information on reporting potholes and making claims, visit your local council's website or explore nationwide resources such as Gov.uk.