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

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Pre-School/Nursery Assistant

Essex County Council
Up to £13.00 per hour
Pre-School/Nursery AssistantPermanent, Part Time£13.00 per hourLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Preschool Nursery Assistant - Level 3 Qualified

Essex County Council
Up to £13.00 per hour
Preschool Nursery Assistant - Level 3 QualifiedPermanent, Part Time£13.00 per hourLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Trading Standards Project Officer - Tobacco and Vapes

Essex County Council
£26601.0000 - £31295.0000 per annum
Trading Standards Project Officer - Tobacco and VapesFixed Term, Full Time£26,601 to £31,295 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Social Care Worker - WMF2272e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£34,434 - £35,412
We have an exciting opportunity, for a passionate, enthusiastic person Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Apprenticeships & Intermediate Labour Market Coordinator

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Create real opportunities for local people and help shape a fairer future. As an Apprenticeships and Intermediate Labour Market Coordinator, you'll wo England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Linkedin Banner