Motoring experts at Bristol Street Motors analysed self-reported pothole data, keeping track of open and resolved road hazard reports in England to find the fixed road rate for each local authority. The worst offenders in England were the Isle of Wight, The Wirral, Wakefield, Barking and Dagenham, and Kingston-Upon-Hull, all with fixed road rates of just seven percent.
East Riding of Yorkshire and Barnsley also have a particularly poor fixed road rate of eight percent.
With so many road hazard reports left unresolved, local councils employ a grading system to ensure the most dangerous potholes are dealt with – only potholes deeper than 40mm and wider than 150mm are typically repaired in a timely manner.
However, the low-priority potholes still pose a hazard. To help better navigate those roads in poorer condition, the experts have provided four top tips to keep drivers and their cars safe on the road.
Slow down
While it’s not always possible to avoid hitting potholes in the road, drivers can control how they approach them.
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When motorists are driving at high speeds, for example, then there’s a higher risk of damaging their vehicle on a pothole-ridden road.
Where possible, drivers should slow their speed when they are approaching pothole-ridden areas.
Remember the two-second rule
Potholes and other road hazards might not be obvious from the motorist’s vantage point in the driver’s seat, so drivers should pay attention to the cars in front of them.
Their speed and behaviour could give a good indicator of the road’s condition.
Over or under-inflated tyres are much more likely to cause damage if they come into contact with a pothole.
The same goes for bulges or blisters on the sidewalls, which could burst under impact.
As a rule of thumb for tyre pressure, drivers should aim for a PSI between 31 and 35, but this can vary from vehicle to vehicle.
If in doubt, drivers should always refer to their vehicle handbook to confirm the optimal tyre pressure.
Check for damage
Even the most careful of drivers will inevitably run over a pothole or feel their suspension tense on a badly-maintained road.
In these scenarios, it’s important to check for any potential damage as soon as it is safe to do so.
Drivers should start with tyres, taking note of their pressure and looking out for any dents on the rims. It’s also a good idea to check the car bumper for any grazing or scratches that could have been sustained.
Beyond superficial damage, driving on a road in poor condition can affect the performance of a vehicle.
For example, if drivers feel vibrations in the steering wheel or the car is naturally pulling to one side, it might be worth visiting a garage for a quick check-up.
If a car has been damaged by a pothole, drivers might be eligible to make a compensation claim for repairs. Head over to Gov.uk to find out more.
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