How to report and how to claim for vehicle damage
Drivers whose vehicles are damaged by potholes may be able to claim compensation from the relevant authority. Read my full guide on how to complain about potholes and claim compensation.
Today (Thursday 14 August 2025), the AA released a new report AA and Pothole Partnership Raise Fresh Concerns as Summer Heat Fuels Pothole Problem revealing how hot weather conditions are exacerbating potholes in the country’s roads.
The July 2025 AA Pothole Index showed a clear rise in incidents caused by potholes to which the AA was called out, compared to July 2024 :
| Incidents July 2024 | Incidents July 2025 | Differential (%) | |
| 49,081 | 50,091 | 2.05 |
Credit: AA
Perhaps surprisingly, figures earlier in the year showed callouts for pothole damage to members’ cars had actually reduced considerably.
The impact of extensive road repairs and increased government financial support supported the reduction in cases. However, the hotter weather this summer has contributed to a surge in pothole incidents.
The AA says:
“The rise in incidents is believed to be linked to the hotter summer weather, which may be exacerbating road surface weaknesses and increasing the risk of tyre damage. The AA has identified several contributing factors:
- Increased road trips on unfamiliar rural roads, which often receive lower priority for repairs.
- Higher temperatures making worn or damaged tyres more susceptible to failure.
- Heat stress worsening already weakened road surfaces.”
The Pothole Partnership brings together the AA, National Motorcyclists Council, British Cycling, IAM RoadSmart, the British Motorcyclists Federation and manufacturer JCB. It has expressed a high concern regarding the latest statistics and developments, highlighting the increased risk to road users.
With the growing number of potholes comes a corresponding increase in the damage caused to vehicles. So what can you do about pot holes?
How to complain and claim for injury or damage to your vehicle
If your vehicle has been damaged by a pothole, this short video explains the complaints and compensation process.
@thecomplainingcow 🚨 Hit a pothole? You might be able to claim compensation from the council. Most people pay for repairs themselves without realising they may have legal rights. Here’s how to build a strong pothole claim and the evidence councils DON’T want you collecting. Save & share this with every driver you know. Follow for more consumer rights tips, complaint hacks, and money-saving advice. #potholes #pothole #consumeradvice #driversuk #moneytips
Media appearances discussing potholes and compensation claims
I regularly appear on television and radio discussing potholes, motoring complaints, road safety and compensation claims. Below, I am on Sky News discussing motorists’ rights and complaints following a serious cycling accident caused by a pothole that had reportedly not been repaired. Pothole that caused serious cyclist crash not fixed.
How to complain about pot holes
Below, Mr Pothole and I appear on BBC Breakfast discussing worsening road conditions, increasing pothole damage and what motorists can do if their vehicle is affected.
BBC Breakfast National Pothole Day 15/01/23
I also comment in the media on wider consumer rights and customer service issues across sectors including retail, finance, utilities, travel and motoring. Further media appearances can be found on the media page.
Related pothole posts
Further help with complaining effectively to a company
For masses of information, tips, guidance, laws and regulations and templates GET THE BOOK! How To Complain: The ESSENTIAL Consumer Guide to Getting REFUNDS, Redress and RESULTS!
Want to get better at complaining? See 101 Habits of an Effective Complainer
