AA Warns Drivers to Avoid Puddles Following Record Month of Pothole-Related Breakdowns
In the wake of a record-breaking month for breakdowns attributed to potholes, the AA is urging drivers to exercise caution and "avoid puddles" on the roads. With over half a million call-outs this year so far and an average of over 1,500 call-outs a day, motorists are feeling the impact of poor road conditions exacerbated by "continuous poor weather" and recent storms like Babet, Ciaran, and Debi.
Common issues resulting from pothole encounters include flat tires, distorted wheels, damaged shock absorbers, and broken suspension springs, with repair costs averaging £440, according to RAC analysis of garage repair data. Potholes typically form as a result of water entering road cracks, freezing, and expanding during icy weather, weakening the road structure.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently pledged over £8 billion in funding to combat the "scourge of potholes," acknowledging the strain on drivers and their vehicles. However, councils argue that the estimated £14 billion needed to repair local roads is still insufficient.
The AA's Tony Rich emphasised the dual impact of the weather, stating, "Relentless rainwater is covering and increasing the severity of potholes, while also holding back essential road repairs by diverting crews to tackle fallen trees and flooded areas."
In October alone, the AA received 52,541 call-outs for vehicles damaged by road defects, marking a 12% increase from the same period last year and surpassing the previous October record set in 2017 by 389 call-outs. The total number of pothole-related call-outs for the year now stands at almost 511,000.
