Drivers urged to claim compensation from local councils for damage costing hundreds
A new study has found that most drivers who have a car damaged by potholes paid for the repairs, despite many being able to get compensation from their council.
The vehicle insurance price comparison service Quotezone.co.uk has shared tips that can help drivers get compensation for a growing problem on the UK roads.
With the approaching autumn bringing colder temperatures and wet weather, potholes are once again beginning to form across the country, which can cause serious damage to cars that hit them.
Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk highlighted that not all motorists were aware that they can often claim compensation from the council for any damage that happened when driving over a pothole.
He explained: "With the battle against potholes surging across the country, it's not surprising to hear so many are having to make manoeuvres to avoid driving over dangerous potholes.
"Costly damage to vehicles is the last thing any driver needs right now, but we want to help them understand what they are entitled to if they can prove they have experienced vehicle damage as a result of driving over an unrepaired pothole."
According to a survey conducted by Quotezone.co.uk in July on 1,000 respondents, 92 percent of Brits think that their area is getting worse for potholes, with 83 percent paying themselves to have the damage fixed.
Generally, it is recommended that drivers take care to avoid hitting potholes wherever possible. However, with drivers getting fined up to £2,500 for swerving suddenly, there may be no choice.
If it is hit at speed, driving over a pothole can damage a number of car components, including tyres, wheels, suspension and steering components, possibly costing thousands to render.
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To help drivers save money, Greg recommended that they reach out to their local council for compensation, though they must be able to provide enough information to prove the damage was caused by a pothole.
He advised: "When claiming, it’s key to include as much information as possible - you could also provide contact details for anyone who witnessed the incident.
"This will all strengthen your case when it comes to proving the damage was caused solely by the unrepaired pothole and helping you to secure the appropriate compensation."
Greg also highlighted that motorists could also claim on their insurance for any pothole damage, but should try to avoid putting their no claims bonus (NCB) at risk.
He continued: "If you have tried to claim through the local council and been turned away, you can look to your insurance provider for protection. If your policy is fully comprehensive then pothole damage is normally covered as standard.
“You will need to provide them with as much information as possible and help them to understand how the damage was solely caused by the unrepaired pothole.
