Mon, 29 Dec 2025

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 Pothole claims up 90% in three years, says RAC

Research from the motoring group also finds that only one in four claims results in a payout.

* Pothole compensation claims made to councils in Britain rose by 90% between 2021 and 2024, with 53,015 claims made in 2024.
* Only a quarter of claims (26%) resulted in payouts, with an average sum of £390 given to claimants.
* The RAC estimates that the cost of repairs for a family car damaged by a pothole can be as much as £590.
* Some councils are under pressure due to budget constraints, making it difficult for them to fix roads and pay out compensation claims.
* The Department for Transport is investing £7.3bn over four years to improve road surfaces and prevent potholes from forming.
* The Local Government Association says that "ever-increasing pressure on budgets" has impacted councils' ability to maintain roads.
* Some councils, such as Derbyshire County Council and Oxfordshire County Council, are taking proactive steps to prevent potholes by investing in surface dressing programs.
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