A new study published by The Green Insurer has revealed that severely damaged roads and potholes are also creating holes in motorists' pockets as the majority of the repair costs caused by these road problems are shouldered by drivers themselves.
According to the report, 28% of the drivers surveyed said that their vehicles suffered damages due to driving on poorly maintained roads with significant potholes.
The report also revealed that one in five (20%) of motorists reported damage to their vehicles because of these potholes and poorly maintained roads, with over £500 price tag on repairs. The research also found that most of the costs are not covered by the driver’s motor insurance premium.
The Green Insurer study noted that out of 71% of motorists who reported having their vehicles repaired due to damages caused by these road problems, only 12% claimed insurance for repairs, while 8% successfully applied for compensation from their local council for the damage. Meanwhile, 4% of them said the damages acquired by their vehicles because of poorly maintained roads with potholes have never been repaired.
Tyres are most at risk due to poorly maintained roads with 60% of those impacted reporting burst or damaged tyres while 40% stated that their car’s suspension needed to be repaired because of the bumpy ride. Meanwhile, 14% said that their car’s paintwork or body needed repairs. According to the report, around 4% of the motorists who participated in the survey said that the driver or passengers were injured because of accidents associated with the poor roads and potholes.
The rising number of damaged cars because of deep potholes and poorly maintained roads is alarming, noted The Green Insurer CEO Paul Baxter.
“Concern about the state of the UK’s roads is growing and clearly, there is a need for major repairs and improvements with more than a quarter of drivers reporting damage to their vehicles as a result,” Baxter said. “The cost of repairs may be relatively low with most drivers saying their bill was less than £500 but it all adds up to the cost of motoring and at a time when people’s budgets are under pressure needing to find money for a repair will be an issue for millions.”
The Green Insurance chief, meanwhile, encouraged motorists to report the poor road conditions in their area to the concerned government agencies.
“People can report potholes in England and Wales through Report a pothole - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) or at Report a pothole - mygov.scot in Scotland and Report a pothole or other surface defect | nidirect in Northern Ireland. They can also report issues through local council websites,” Baxter said.
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