Got Car Trouble? Potholes Are the Real Culprits
Every time you hit a patch of lumpy road, your car takes a hit. In Britain, those hidden road bumps— potholes—have become a relentless threat to drivers and their wallets.
Why They’re a Big Deal
- They’re growing faster than your local council can fix them (up 40% this year!).
- 83% of motorists who’ve been wrecked by potholes paid for repairs out of pocket.
- 27% of drivers had no idea they could claim from the council or road authority.
What Can You Do?
Good news—there are a couple of ways you can try to get some relief:
- File a Claim with Your Local Council
- Make sure the pothole is at least 40mm deep.
- Record the exact spot and time.
- Take a photo if it’s safe.
- Bring a witness or mechanic’s note to prove the damage.
- Go Through Your Insurance
- Check if your policy covers pothole damage (most comprehensive ones do).
- Just remember: a claim may dent your no‑claims discount.
- Ask for a quote with the claim added to see if the premium changes.
Ps. If the council rejects you, that’s what the up‑to‑date Highways Act 1980 says— they’ll refuse if they didn’t know about the pothole. And 59% of drivers never even report them. That’s a huge missed chance for everyone.
Key Takeaway from the Insur‑Experts
Quotezone’s Greg Wilson says, “Potholes are multiplying while repairs are dropping. If you want a shot at getting compensated, you gotta be proactive: report them early, gather evidence, and if dead‑ends, put your insurer on the line.”
So next time you see that “friendly” bump, don’t just drive through—tap that reporting button, tell a friend who saw you bump right there, and protect your car (and your pockets).
