Pothole Claims Double in Britain in 2023

Pothole compensation claims in Britain have more than doubled in the past year, with 20,432 claims submitted to local authorities in 2023 compared to 8,327 in 2022, according to RAC research. Surrey County Council experienced the highest increase, with claims rising from 734 to 3,418. Despite the surge in claims, only 15% resulted in payouts, with councils often rejecting claims under the Highways Act 1980, citing a lack of awareness of the potholes. Payments averaged £260, significantly lower than the typical repair cost of £460. The RAC has urged drivers to report potholes to help authorities manage road conditions more effectively, while the government plans to allocate £500 million in additional funding for road maintenance. The situation underscores the ongoing poor condition of local roads and the financial strain on both drivers and local councils.