Pothole Claims Up 90% in Three Years, Says RAC

Significant Increase in Pothole Claims

In a revealing analysis by the RAC motoring group, pothole-related compensation claims submitted to councils across Britain surged by a staggering 90% from 2021 to 2024. This alarming trend underlines the growing impact of potholes on both drivers and local authorities.

Key Findings from the RAC Report

– Yearly Comparison:
– 2021: 27,731 claims
– 2023: 56,655 claims (peak)
– 2024: 53,015 claims
– Payouts:
– Only 26% of claims resulted in compensation in 2024.
– The average payout amount was £390.

Despite this growth, claims fell slightly in 2024 compared to the previous year. The Local Government Association (LGA) highlighted that budgetary constraints are severely limiting councils’ abilities to carry out road repairs effectively.

The Cost of Potholes

Potholes not only hassle drivers but also lead to expensive repair bills. The RAC estimates that damages from potholes can result in an average repair cost of £590 for a family car, particularly if the damage goes beyond a simple puncture. Such repairs can impact critical vehicle components, including shock absorbers, suspension springs, and wheels.

Road Safety Concerns

Simon Williams, RAC’s head of policy, expressed concerns over road safety, particularly emphasizing the dangers posed to motorcyclists. Councils often have varying criteria for classifying a pothole, he noted. “If you hit one, it can cause a severe jolt and real damage—not just to vehicles, but also to road safety.”

Council Responses and Initiatives

The RAC reached out to 207 councils regarding pothole compensation claims. Here are some notable findings:

– Derbyshire County Council experienced the largest increase in claims, climbing from 224 to 3,307 over the three years.
– However, claims have dropped by 72% since May 2025, according to Derbyshire councillor Charlotte Hill, who advocates for a proactive maintenance strategy.

– Glasgow City Council and Oxfordshire County Council also reported significant rises in claims during the same period. Andrew Gant, cabinet member for transport management at Oxfordshire County Council, emphasized, Investing in maintenance to prevent potholes is much more cost-effective than fixing them post-formation. This approach has led to an investment of nearly £14.5 million in surface dressing programs—the largest in over 20 years.

Government Investments and Future Strategies

The Department for Transport is allocating £7.3 billion over the next four years with a focus on improving road surfaces. A spokesperson stated, This will shift the focus from expensive, reactive repairs to proactive maintenance that prevents potholes from forming.

Despite this, a Local Government Association spokesperson noted that ongoing budget pressures hinder councils’ capabilities to address road maintenance adequately. While new funding will help reverse the decline of local roads, it takes time to shift from a reactive to a proactive maintenance strategy.

Conclusion

The remarkable 90% rise in pothole claims highlights a pressing issue for both motorists and local councils. With ongoing government investments and local initiatives aiming to improve maintenance practices, there is hope for a future where potholes are effectively managed, ensuring safer roads for all.