The number of drivers seeking reimbursement for vehicle damage caused by potholes has hit a record low, with only 19% of claimants receiving compensation across the UK. This marks a decline from the 29% rate in 2024, as per data from Confused.com. Some regions have even lower approval rates than the national average, with nearly half of drivers admitting to frequently swerving to avoid potholes while driving.
Devon topped the list as the area with the most reported potholes, totaling 210,754 from 2022 to 2025, yet only 15% of damage claims were approved in that region. Meanwhile, West Yorkshire reported 191,001 pothole incidents during the same period, but only 11% of claims received compensation.
According to Confused.com, Northumberland ranked as the third worst area, followed closely by Greater London and Dumfries and Galloway. Surprisingly, not all the regions with the highest pothole counts correlated with those providing the most compensation to affected drivers between 2022 and 2025.
In terms of compensation payouts, Greater London led the pack with £1.29 million disbursed, followed by East Sussex at £642,338 and Glasgow at £606,492. The Highland Council and Oxfordshire rounded out the top five with £544,092 and £507,233 respectively. Over three million potholes have been reported in the UK over the past four years.
Matt Crole-Rees, a motoring expert at Confused.com, emphasized the ongoing concern regarding potholes among drivers nationwide, especially following severe weather conditions that accelerate road surface deterioration. He highlighted the disruptions and unexpected repair costs experienced by motorists due to deteriorating road conditions.
In the 2025 Autumn Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged £2 billion annually by 2029-30 to local authorities for pothole repair and maintenance.
Drivers affected by poor road conditions seeking compensation from local authorities can follow a five-step process. Firstly, they should note the location, date, and time of the pothole incident and take photos of the damage. Secondly, they need to determine the appropriate authority to file a complaint with based on the road type. Thirdly, they should submit a formal claim, wait for a response, and seek legal advice if dissatisfied. Lastly, individuals with comprehensive insurance coverage can consider making a claim through their provider, taking into account any no claims bonus and excess payments.
