The count of drivers seeking reimbursement for vehicle damage caused by potholes has hit a record low, unveiling the UK regions most affected by this issue. Local authorities compensated only 19% of drivers filing claims for pothole-related damages, a drop from 29% in 2024, as per data from Confused.com. Some areas in the UK reported even lower compensation rates than the national average of 19%. Nearly half of drivers nationwide admitted to frequently swerving to avoid potholes while driving.
Devon topped the list for the highest number of potholes reported from 2022 to 2025, with 210,754 cases, yet only 15% of damage claims were approved. In West Yorkshire, drivers reported 191,001 pothole incidents during the same period, but councils approved compensation for only 11% of the claims.
According to Confused.com, Northumberland ranked as the third-worst area for potholes, followed closely by Greater London and Dumfries and Galloway in fourth and fifth place. Surprisingly, the regions with the most potholes did not align with those providing the highest compensation to affected drivers between 2022 and 2025.
Greater London led in compensating drivers for pothole damages, with a total of £1.29 million paid out. East Sussex followed with £642,338, and Glasgow closely behind at £606,492. Highland Council and Oxfordshire secured the fourth and fifth positions, respectively, in compensating affected drivers. Over three million potholes were reported across the UK in the past four years.
Matt Crole-Rees, a motoring expert at Confused.com, emphasized the ongoing concern of potholes for UK drivers, particularly after severe weather conditions that accelerate road surface deterioration. He highlighted the disruptions experienced by motorists due to poor road conditions, leading to unexpected repair costs and vehicle damage.
In the 2025 Autumn Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged an annual allocation of £2 billion by 2029-30 to local authorities for the repair and maintenance of roads, including fixing potholes.
Drivers affected by road conditions seeking compensation can follow five essential steps to claim reimbursement. They should document the location, date, and time of the pothole incident and take pictures of the damage. It’s crucial to identify the correct authority to address the complaint, whether it’s National Highways for major roads or the local council for smaller roads. Submitting a formal claim to the respective authority, awaiting a response, and seeking legal advice if unsatisfied with the outcome are crucial steps. Additionally, drivers with comprehensive insurance cover should consider filing a claim through their provider, taking into account factors like no claims bonus and excess payments.