William Eichler 06 February 2024

Council sued after cyclist hits pothole

Council sued after cyclist hits pothole image
Image: Gulpa / Shutterstock.com.

Staffordshire County Council is facing legal action after the triathlete Paul Hughes hit a pothole while cycling breaking multiple bones and damaging a lung.

Mr Hughes, 57, broke his ribs, pelvis, and collarbone, fractured his spine, and damaged a lung when he was thrown from his bike in October 2022.

He is now seeking compensation and has criticised the council for failing to fix the pothole over a year later.

Mr Hughes told the MailOnline: 'I know people who have died because of pothole crashes, and I think people need to be made aware of it and I think that's a good thing.

'I understand the Council haven't got a bottomless pit for doing stuff, but I think they could do a lot more.'

Staffordshire County Council cabinet Member for Highways and Transport David Williams said he was sorry to hear about the accident.

He added: ‘The recent very wet weather has seen a rise in new pothole reports, and our crews will be carrying out numerous temporary and permanent repairs to the roads. All reported issues are inspected as soon as possible and assessed for their severity, and we deal with any defect that poses an immediate risk as a priority.’

Check out: Potholes: the drivers’ biggest pain.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior/Principal Regeneration Officer

Fareham Borough Council
£45,465 - £55,379
Our town centre regeneration is moving from planning to delivery, and we're looking for someone who wants to help make regeneration happen. Fareham, Hampshire
Recuriter: Fareham Borough Council

Policy and Reporting Officer (Grade H)

Nottingham City Council
£40,777 – £44,075
You will help ensure staff have access to clear and effective guidance that supports consistent and high-quality practice. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Practice Lead (Grade I)

Nottingham City Council
£46,142 - £49,282
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced social worker Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Lead Child Protection Practitioner (LCPP) (Grade J)

Nottingham City Council
£51,356 – £54,495
You will promote best practice, support continuous improvement and help drive positive outcomes for children and young people. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Strategic Director of Corporate and Governance Services

Isle of Wight Council
Grade 19, from £115,794 to £124,441 per annum
This pivotal leadership role sits at the heart of our council and will give you an opportunity to truly influence organisational success Isle of Wight
Recuriter: Isle of Wight Council
Linkedin Banner