Introduction
Although potholes may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, they’re causing major damage.
As a result, cars — and bank balances — are being wrecked across the UK.
Worse still?
Many drivers are discovering the hard way that insurance claims come with hidden catches.
Does your car insurance really cover pothole damage?
And even if it does, should you actually claim?
Potholes Are Wrecking Cars Across The UK
Let’s not sugar-coat it.
UK roads are falling apart — and it’s costing drivers dearly.
In just the first three months of 2025, the RAC recorded over 9,400 breakdowns linked to potholes.
That’s up from 7,900 during the same time last year.
A staggering 19% increase.
And it’s not just tyres we’re talking about.
Drivers are facing damage to:
- Alloy wheels
- Suspension springs
- Steering alignment
- Brake components
- Exhausts and undercarriages
These aren’t minor fixes.
Some of them can cost hundreds — even thousands — to repair.
And as the problem with potholes grows, so does the urgency to find cheap car insurance that offers real value.
Need a place to start? Visit cheapcarinsurance.co.uk to compare flexible options that don’t break the bank.
Will Your Car Insurance Cover Damage From Potholes?
Here’s the short answer: yes, but only if you’ve got comprehensive cover.
If you’re on third-party only, or even third-party, fire and theft, you’re out of luck.
These types of policies won’t cover damage to your own vehicle — even if the road was clearly to blame.
With comprehensive insurance, however, pothole damage is usually covered.
But there’s a catch…
Many insurers class this kind of claim as ‘at fault’ — even if you weren’t driving recklessly.
And that changes everything.
To learn more about the difference in cover types, check out Comprehensive vs Third Party.
Here’s Why You Might Not Want To Claim
This part surprises a lot of drivers.
Just because you can claim for potholes, doesn’t mean you should.
Here’s what you’re risking:
- Your excess might wipe out any payout
- Your no-claims discount could vanish overnight
- Your premium might rise — even with bonus protection
Let’s say the repair costs £300.
If your excess is £250, your insurer pays just £50.
And then your premium shoots up by £150 next year.
Sound like a good deal?
Didn’t think so.
In many cases, it’s far cheaper to pay for the damage yourself — especially if you’ve secured a very cheap car insurance deal that’s worth protecting.
But Sometimes, It Is Worth It
That said, it’s not always so clear-cut.
If the pothole damage has wrecked your suspension, cracked an alloy, or rendered your car unsafe to drive?
You may have no choice.
Repairs to major components like:
- Steering racks
- Suspension arms
- Subframes
…can cost upwards of £1,000.
In these situations, making a claim could save you from serious out-of-pocket expenses.
But do this before contacting your insurer:
- Review your policy
- Check your excess
- Confirm if your no-claims bonus is protected
- Run the numbers to see what you’ll really save
Claiming For Potholes From The Council Instead?
Here’s something most people don’t realise:
You don’t have to go through your insurance.
If a pothole caused damage and the council failed to maintain the road properly, you may be able to claim compensation directly.
Under the Highways Act 1980, local authorities are legally responsible for road safety.
But it’s not that simple.
They’ll often reject claims by arguing:
- The pothole was recently inspected
- No one reported it before your incident
- Repairs were scheduled and pending
Still, it’s a route worth exploring.
Especially if your aim is to avoid losing a precious no-claims bonus.
And if you’re working on rebuilding your record, you’ll want to protect your premium at all costs.
Looking to improve your standing with insurers? Here’s how your credit score affects your car insurance.
How to Make a Strong Claim (And Actually Win It)
So, you’ve hit a pothole.
Now what?
This is where most people go wrong — they skip the evidence.
If you want to claim from your insurer or the council, you’ll need to show clear proof.
Otherwise, you could be wasting your time.
Let’s walk through the steps:
Start With Photos of the Potholes— Lots of Them
First things first — document everything.
Take multiple photos of the pothole.
Show the size, depth, and the damage to your car.
Make sure they’re time-stamped if possible.
Even better?
Include something in the image for scale, like a shoe or ruler.
Pinpoint the Exact Location of the potholes
Next, make a note of exactly where the pothole is.
Where was it?
Outside a shop? Near a roundabout? Just past a junction?
Use a GPS screenshot or Google Maps if you need to.
The clearer you are, the harder it is for them to deny your claim.
Report the Potholes Immediately
Before you claim, report it.
Why?
Because councils often reject claims if a pothole hasn’t been reported before.
You can either report it through the local authority’s website or, alternatively, use the Fill That Hole tool by Cycling UK.
This ensures you have a documented paper trail to support your claim.
Get a Quote or Keep Your Receipt
Already paid for repairs?
Save the invoice.
If not, get a written quote from a trusted garage.
Break it down: parts, labour, VAT.
This will strengthen your claim — whether it’s with your insurer or your council.
Submit a Solid Claim
Now it’s time to apply.
Visit your council’s website and find the damage claims page.
You’ll need to submit:
- A written statement of what happened
- All your photographic evidence
- The location of the pothole
- A copy of your quote or receipt
Appeal If You’re Rejected
Here’s the truth:
Most claims are denied at first.
But don’t give up.
Ask the council for their road inspection records.
If, however, they failed to inspect the road recently or overlooked prior reports, you could have valid grounds to appeal.
And if you’re still getting nowhere?
The small claims court could be your next step — though legal advice is always wise before proceeding.
How To Protect Yourself from Pothole Costs In The Future
You’ve seen how messy claims can get.
So how do you avoid the hassle in the first place?
Let’s look at three ways smart drivers reduce their risk.
Drive Defensively
To begin with, slow down in areas with poor road conditions.
Give yourself more time to spot potholes — especially in wet weather.
Avoid puddles when you can.
They often hide deeper dangers.
Maintain Tyres and Alignment
Additionally, keep your tyre pressure at the recommended level.
In fact, low pressure significantly increases the risk of rim and suspension damage.
Misaligned wheels?
They’ll make minor damage worse over time.
Staying on top of basic maintenance could save you hundreds later.
Switch to Smarter Cover
Finally, consider upgrading your insurance.
The cheapest policy isn’t always the best — especially if you drive on rural or poorly maintained roads.
Not sure where to start?
Compare providers using this guide to switching car insurance.
It could mean better support and fewer surprises when the unexpected happens.
Conclusion
If you’ve got comprehensive car insurance, you’re likely covered for potholes— but that doesn’t mean you should jump to claim.
Ask yourself:
- Is the damage severe or cosmetic?
- Will the payout be more than your excess?
- Is your no-claims bonus at risk?
- Can your future premium absorb the hit?
If the answers lean in your favour?
Then go ahead — claim.
If not?
Paying out of pocket may be the better long-term move, especially if you’re trying to hold on to very cheap car insurance.
In the end, it’s about being smart with the small stuff — so you’re covered when the big stuff hits.
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