World Pothole Day? Use it to complain about the state of our roads

15/03/15 Resolver supports World Pothole Day – here’s our advice on how to make a claim if you fall foul of one

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There’s one thing every winter brings to the UK’s roads – and that’s potholes. But website streetrepairs.co.uk has launched what it’s calling World Pothole Day in an effort to make our roads smoother.

And while this might seem like a flippant issue, the combination of wet winters and tight budgets fro street repairs can leave motorists struggling, dodging through pockmarked roads and risking serious damage.

That’s why we’re joining Streetrepairs.co.uk in calling for more money to repair our roads. But what can you do if you do get caught out by a pothole:

Get evidence

If you can take a picture of the pothole, damage to your car/bike or you as well as any repair charges. Also if possible see if it has affected anyone else and make a joint claim as this is a lot more powerful.

Report it

Report the pothole to the council in that area; they control 90% of the UK’s roads. You can do this directly, or use resolver.co.uk to help make managing your case easier
. If the road is not maintained by the council, they will tell you who you need to contact, such as the Highways Agency (motorways and A roads). Remember to always be polite and professional as well as reasonable throughout the process.

Feedback

The council should give you feedback on whether they will pay you compensation. If they do not give you money towards the damage you have caused, then you make a Freedom of Information Request about what they have paid out for when consumers have made claims for potholes. You can see then what they have paid out for.

Appeal

Ask for their decision to be appealed. If they refuse, request mediation of the issue with the council. If you get nowhere, you can consider legal action, but get advice first and keep a complete record of your case throughout the process. You can always claim on your insurance if you have it, but of course this may affect your premiums and any no claims bonus.