A recent study conducted by the RAC revealed that drivers’ dissatisfaction regarding Britain’s local roads has reached unprecedented levels, with nearly 60% of motorists citing road maintenance as a major concern.

Potholes can do costly damage to your car but are also dangerous to pedestrians.

Jack Logan of Express Solicitors recalls one of his cases where his client suffered a broken ankle and numerous injuries to her shoulders, wrists and knees after tripping on a pothole.

He said: “Even relatively small potholes can cause severe injuries and it is important to hold local authorities accountable if they fail to maintain surfaces for which they are responsible.”

Due to Jack’s client’s injuries and the fact that the pothole was only there due to the negligence of the local authority he was able to secure his client £15,000 in compensation for her injuries.

According to RAC data, 25,085 breakdowns related to potholes were reported in the 12 months leading up to the end of June.

This year, almost three-quarters (73%) of drivers believe the condition of the local roads they frequently use has deteriorated compared to a year ago, an increase from 67% last year and 49% in 2019.

Simon Williams, RAC’s head of policy, stated: “These figures strongly criticize the past government promises to resolve Britain’s ongoing pothole issues. It is evident that councils have not received the necessary financial support to maintain roads to an acceptable standard.”

The survey gathered responses from 2,691 motorists who drive at least once a month, ensuring they were nationally representative of all UK drivers. The poor condition of local roads also has significant implications for vehicles. More than a quarter (27%) of drivers reported their vehicles were damaged by potholes in the past year, rising to 32% for those in rural areas. Punctures (47%) were the most frequently reported issue, followed by wheel damage (43%) and broken suspension springs (29%). The latter two issues can be especially costly, with RAC data indicating that repairing a family car can cost up to £460.