Driven to destruction: A quarter of pothole claims are write-offs

Aviva is urging motorists to take caution when driving over potholes, as new data by the insurer reveals that a quarter (25%) of claims for pothole damage involve vehicles that are written off.^[1]  

According to the data, pothole claims costs £3,863^[1] on average - 54 times the cost of repairing a pothole itself which is £72, according to the Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance Survey Report 2025.^[2]

Reported damage ranges from tyres, wheels and alloys to more serious issues such as suspension, wheel alignment, battery, radiator and bumper damage.

Hannah Pinches, Motor Claims Director at Aviva, comments:

“Many motorists may perceive potholes as an annoyance but it’s worrying to see how many cars have been written off due to severe damage. While some damage may be minor or motorists may be unaware it has been caused by a pothole, our data shows the impact potholes can have. Older vehicles can be more susceptible to damage whereas modern cars have more technology and features which are often built-in to parts, such as bumpers. Even seemingly minor damage could result in a vehicle being written off as the structural or safety integrity of the car has been compromised.

“Pothole-related claims tend to be more prevalent during the winter months, when deteriorating road conditions, reduced visibility and adverse weather can obscure road defects and increase the likelihood of vehicle damage. In warmer months, roads expand which can cause existing weak spots to open into cracks. While these may appear minor at first, cracks can quickly weaken the road surface, turning into potholes and cause significant damage to vehicles.

“Pothole damage can also be costly to repair – if not resulting in a total write off - and your insurer may be able to support you should you wish to claim under your policy. As our data shows, motorists may swerve to avoid potholes but this in turn can lead to collisions involving other cars or vulnerable road users. It’s wise to report the pothole to the local authority or National Highways so that they can address the problem, which will help to make the roads a safer driving environment for everyone.

“The government deserves credit for providing record funding to repair. It’s crucial that this funding is front-loaded and provides local authorities with the resources to act – our data shows clearly how dangerous and costly potholes can be for motorists”.

Aviva’s top tips for protecting vehicles against pothole damage:

• Slow down - Hitting a pothole at speed increases the force on tyres, wheels and suspension. Slowing down (even slightly) can significantly reduce damage.
• Keep a safe distance - Leaving more space between you and the vehicle in front gives you time to spot and safely avoid potholes, especially on poorly lit or wet roads. Potholes can pose a risk to other road users, such as cyclists, so it’s important to keep a safe distance as they may swerve unexpectedly to avoid uneven surfaces.
• Maintain correct tyre pressure - Under‑inflated or over‑inflated tyres are more vulnerable to damage. Regular pressure checks help tyres absorb shocks more effectively.
• Be alert after bouts of heavy rain - It’s best to avoid driving through flood water whenever possible. Flood water can be deceptive and may also conceal potholes, debris or damaged road surfaces that could harm your vehicle.
• Don’t swerve suddenly - Sharp last‑minute manoeuvres can be more dangerous than the pothole itself. If you can’t avoid it safely, brake steadily and drive over it in a straight line.
• Check your cars - If you hit a pothole and notice something isn’t right, such as unusual tyre behaviour or changes in steering, pull over safely and check for visible damage. It’s also helpful to record the time, date and exact location, as this information will be required if you decide to make a claim.
• Consult expert help - If your vehicle has been damaged, ensure it’s inspected by a garage or mechanic, as any damage isn’t always immediately apparent.

-ends-

References

^1. _{Analysis of Aviva and Direct Line motor claims data from January 2023 to January 2026, including damage and total write off claims caused by potholes [↑]}

^2. _{Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance Survey Report 2025[↑]}

Enquiries