Can You Claim for Injuries Caused by a Pothole?
Potholes are a widespread problem across the UK — not just an inconvenience, but a real danger. These road defects frequently cause vehicle damage and serious injuries to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. In fact, a Freedom of Information request revealed that UK councils paid out over £32 million in pothole-related injury claims in a single year.
Injuries from pothole accidents can include fractures, lacerations, whiplash, dental trauma, and even head or neck injuries. If you’ve been hurt due to a pothole, you may be entitled to compensation.
What Is Considered a Pothole?
A pothole is a depression or hollow in a road surface, typically caused by water weakening the ground beneath. Over time, traffic wears down the weakened area, eventually breaking the road surface and creating a hole.
There is no universal standard, but most councils in the UK won’t investigate or repair potholes unless they are at least 40mm deep. This means many potentially hazardous potholes go unrepaired for long periods.
Who’s at Risk?
Drivers
For motorists, potholes can cause sudden jolts leading to tyre blowouts, damaged suspension, or loss of control. In serious cases, drivers may swerve, skid, or even crash into other vehicles. During bad weather, the risks are even higher due to reduced visibility and wet road conditions. Learn more about our road traffic accident claims service.
Cyclists
Potholes are especially dangerous for cyclists. A sudden jolt can throw a cyclist off balance or force them into traffic. Narrow tyres are also more vulnerable to damage from pothole edges or debris. If you’ve been injured while riding, visit our cycling accident claims page.
Pedestrians
Potholes don’t just affect vehicles. Uneven surfaces can trip pedestrians, leading to injuries like sprains, broken bones, or head trauma. Poor lighting or weather conditions can make potholes harder to see, increasing the risk. Our pedestrian claims team can help if you’ve suffered a fall due to a road or pavement defect.
Who Is Responsible for Pothole Claims?
Under UK law, highway authorities — including local councils — have a duty of care to maintain roads and pavements in a reasonably safe condition. If they fail to do so and a known hazard causes injury, they can be held liable.
To make a successful pothole injury claim, you must show that:
- The pothole was dangerous
- The council or authority knew or should have known about it
- No reasonable steps were taken to fix it in time
Documenting the pothole with photographs, noting its size and location, and obtaining medical records will help build your case. We can guide you through this process.
Why Choose Stonehewer Moss for Your Pothole Injury Claim?
Stonehewer Moss Solicitors are APIL-accredited personal injury specialists with extensive experience handling pothole-related accident claims. We understand the legal complexities and know how to hold negligent authorities accountable.
Our team will gather evidence, liaise with insurers or councils, and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. Most claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis, so there’s no financial risk to you.
Don’t suffer in silence. If a pothole has caused your injury, call us on 01606 872200 or email info@stonehewermoss.co.uk to find out how much you could be owed.
Watch our short video to learn more about No Win No Fee claims