18 May 2023

Potholes in the UK damaging cars by nearly double compared to 2022

A report made by a leading industry body has shown a 39% year-on-year increase in cars and vans being damaged by potholes.

Drivers are finding problems with suspension parts, cracked wheels and damaged tyres, with poor road surfaces being the most likely culprit. The number of pothole related breakdowns has also more than doubled compared to 2021.

The road surfaces around the UK have been rapidly deteriorating over the last few years, the increase in potholes is seemly caused by December’s extremely cold weather. Another possibility being the average weight of vehicles has nearly doubled in the last 20 years, with far more drivers on the road.

Fleet managers are urged to inform drivers surrounding the problem, councils are not obligated to pay compensation to drivers whose cars have suffered damage after hitting a pothole. Drivers are encouraged to report potholes to the local authority, therefore being placed onto the Pothole Index, which tracks pothole call outs across local councils around the UK.

The Asphalt Industry Alliance reported that to restore the UKs roads back to a fit-for-purpose condition could cost up to 14 billion pounds.

It is important drivers are very careful, especially in fleet cars and vans to reduce downtime as much as possible. Drivers are also reminded to be aware of other road users and hidden potholes when facing wet weather.

Read more on the story on Fleet News.