The number of pothole-related claims increased by a record 40% last year when compared to 2022, the latest data from Admiral Car Insurance has revealed.
Ahead of National Pothole Day on 15th January, the insurer said that 2023 was set to be a record year for claims relating to potholes with a 138% increase since 2016.
The previous record year for pothole claims was in 2018 when the infamous ‘Beast from the East’ led to a spike in drivers experiencing damage to their vehicles from poorly maintained roads.
Overall, 2023 saw a 25% increase in the number of pothole-related claims compared to 2018.
Adam Gavin, head of claims at Admiral, said: ‘January 15th marks National Pothole Day and anyone who drives will be familiar with that sudden “clunk” from roads that are plagued with potholes. Potholes are more than just an inconvenience; they can also cause costly damage to your vehicle.
‘January, February and March are the worst time of year for pothole claims, with more than a third of claims we receive made over this period, as road surfaces become unsettled by freezing temperatures and thaws.’
Admiral received 1,324 pothole-related claims last year compared to 946 in 2022 – an increase of 39.95%.
The average cost of pothole damage has also increased by 29% in 2023 compared with 2022.
The latest ALARM survey found that councils face a record £14bn road repair backlog which it would take them 11 years to tackle without further support.
This article first appeared on localgov.co.uk.
