If you had to pick the most annoying thing about driving, whether it’s endless Bank Holiday traffic, a dreaded parking ticket, or potholes, the nation has spoken: potholes win.
According to new research from Mercedes-Benz Vans, almost a third of drivers (30%) would rather sit in hours of traffic or pay for a parking ticket than risk the damage a pothole can cause (24%). And when potholes strike, the bill isn’t small. Nearly one in four drivers say they’ve paid up to £500 in repairs.
It’s no surprise then that potholes are officially at epidemic levels. Over 1 million are recorded across UK roads, with repair costs to drivers hitting £1.7bn in 2024, up 149 percent compared to ten years ago. For context, that’s even more than the £1.2bn we collectively spend on parking fines every year.
Potholes have become a national obsession
They’re not just a driving issue anymore, they’ve become part of everyday conversation. More than half of Brits (59%) say potholes are now their number one small-talk topic, beating football and even the weather.
Some drivers are so fed up, they’ve taken matters into their own hands. In 2022, Rod Stewart made headlines after he was spotted filling potholes outside his Essex mansion to protect his supercars.
The government has promised £1.6bn to tackle the problem, with councils forced to publish progress reports. But for now, Britain’s roads are still looking rough.
How to dodge pothole damage
Until the roads get sorted, here’s how you can protect your car and your bank balance:
- Check tyre pressure. Too low means more chance of bursting, too high means less cushioning.
- Slow it down. Hitting a pothole at speed makes the damage worse.
- Keep your distance. Give yourself time to spot craters ahead.
- Hold the wheel steady. Potholes can cause nasty jolts.
- Don’t swerve suddenly. You’ll risk an accident.
- Get your alignment checked. Even small knocks can throw it off.
- Inspect your car after a hit. Watch for tyre bulges, strange vibrations, or pulling to one side.
- Use apps and groups. They’re useful for spotting pothole hotspots.
Bonus tip: If a pothole does damage your car, note the exact location and report it. You might even be able to claim repair costs back from your local council.
