William Eichler 13 February 2024

February most dangerous month for ‘pothole prangs’

February most dangerous month for ‘pothole prangs’  image
Image: Lucky Team Studio / Shutterstock.com.

Motorists have been warned that February is the most dangerous month of the year for ‘pothole prangs’ as research reveals a dramatic increase in pothole damage claims this time last year.

Analysis by public sector insurer Zurich Municipal found that last year local authorities saw a 66% increase in pothole-related vehicle damage claims.

It also revealed that claims in the month of February doubled compared to 2022.

Alix Bedford, risk expert, at Zurich UK, commented: ‘Many local roads are already well past their designed lifespan and continuous added pressure coupled with more extreme weather events will eventually mean that patching up potholes will no longer be sufficient.

‘It will get to the point where roads will need to be completely resurfaced. This can be seen as an expensive option, and may cause short term disruption, but investment in the resilience of the roads network will provide longer term relief for road users.’

The South West has seen the biggest increase in pothole-related damage claims over the last year with a 175% increase, closely followed by the West Midlands (154%) and Yorkshire and Humber (74%).

For more on the threat of potholes, check out: Potholes: the drivers’ biggest pain

Black hole spending review image

Black hole spending review

Jonathan Werran, chief executive of Localis, reflects on what the Spending Review means for local government.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Assistant Director Planning (Chief Planning Officer)

Mansfield District Council
up to £72,011 (pay award pending)
We are seeking an experienced chief planning officer. Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Mansfield District Council

Service Director – People & Culture

Cambridgeshire County Council
Up to £115k
Cambridgeshire is a great place to work and live. Cambridgeshire
Recuriter: Cambridgeshire County Council

Director of Finance (Section 151 Officer)

South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership
£108,657 - £134,787 pa
Are you a visionary finance leader ready to make a lasting impact? Lincolnshire
Recuriter: South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership

Team Leader, Short Breaks Service

Durham County Council
Grade 8 £31,586 - £35,235
Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Resourcing and Workforce Planning Officer

Durham County Council
£34,314 to £37,938 p.a. (Grade 9) Pay award pending
Are you passionate about recruitment, talent management, and workforce planning? Do you thrive on supporting managers, improving processes, and deliv Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner