Pothole Claims Soar as UK Roads Take Their Toll
Potholes are more than just an annoyance - they’re costing drivers serious money. According to recent RAC analysis, compensation claims for pothole damage have risen by 91% in three years, from 27,731 in 2021 to 53,015 in 2024.
Some councils have seen particularly sharp increases: Glasgow jumped from 1,140 to 2,794 claims, Oxfordshire from 488 to 1,941, and Derbyshire saw claims soar from 224 to 3,307. Yet despite the overall rise over three years, the total number of claims fell slightly last year, down 6% from 2023.
The data also shows that success is far from guaranteed. Only a quarter of claims were settled in 2024, with the average payout (£390) still falling short of typical repair costs (£590). In some councils, over 90% of claims were rejected, leaving many drivers to cover repair bills themselves.
Simon Williams, Head of Policy at the RAC, notes:
“Drivers are still suffering the consequences of years of neglect to Britain’s local road network. Even if you submit a compensation claim, the odds aren’t good.”
However, there’s a silver lining. The Government has recently allocated a record £1.6bn for road maintenance, alongside multi-year settlements that give councils the certainty to plan preventative work. For van owners and everyday drivers, this should lead to better maintained roads and fewer unexpected repair bills in the future.
In the meantime, it’s worth taking precautions: check your vehicle’s tyres and suspension regularly, avoid potholes where you safely can, and report any serious road defects to your local council. Staying vigilant can help reduce damage, and keep your van or car running smoothly.