Compensation claims made to councils in Britain related to pothole damage increased by 90 percent between 2021 and 2024, according to an analysis by the RAC motoring group. The study, which examined data from 177 local authorities, revealed that while claims rose significantly over the three-year period, the number actually fell in 2024 compared to 2023.

The RAC's analysis indicated that 53,015 compensation claims were submitted in 2024, a substantial increase from the 27,731 claims made in 2021. However, this figure represents a decrease from the 56,655 claims recorded in 2023. Furthermore, the study found that only 26 percent of claims made in 2024 resulted in a payout, with the average compensation amounting to £390.

Potholes have become a significant concern for drivers across the UK, leading to costly repair bills and, in some cases, injuries to passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The rise in claims reflects the deteriorating condition of roads and the increasing financial burden placed on motorists.

The Local Government Association (LGA) attributed the issue to "ever-increasing pressure" on council budgets, which limits their ability to adequately maintain and repair road surfaces. The LGA emphasized that insufficient funding hinders proactive road maintenance, leading to a reactive approach where potholes are addressed only after they have formed.

In response to the growing problem, the Department for Transport stated that the government is allocating £7.3 billion over the next four years to improve road surfaces across the country. This investment aims to address the backlog of repairs and prevent further deterioration of the road network.

The RAC estimates that a typical pothole repair can cost hundreds of pounds, placing a significant financial strain on drivers. The low percentage of successful claims suggests that many motorists are left to shoulder these costs themselves. The increasing number of claims highlights the need for more effective and proactive road maintenance strategies to prevent potholes from forming in the first place.