Is it possible to claim from local authorities for pothole damage to cars?

A few weeks ago your column contained an item concerning procedures to be adopted when pursuing the Local Authorities in respect of damage to motor vehicles by potholes where, as in my case, the County Council is, through its insurers, denying liability. Please supply a copy of the relevant article

Asked on 25 May 2013 by KV, Cambridge

Answered by Honest John
If the pothole had been reported via www.fixmystreet.co.uk or via www.potholes.co.uk and had not been repaired within a 'reasonable' time (say 10 days), then the council could be held liable for malfeasance and could be forced to pay for the damage. It the pothole had not been reported, then the council is not liable because it cannot be held accountable for every hole that opens up in the roads overnight.
Similar questions
Having suffered a burst tyre after hitting a pothole while driving on a wet road in the dark, what procedures should I follow in order to make a claim against the council concerned? I have sympathy for...
The lane we have to drive on every day is full of potholes and, despite several complaints to Highways, nothing has been done. We now have broken a road spring due to the condition of the road. Do Highways...
My daughter hit a pothole in a local lane. The hole was nearly 6 feet long, 12 inches wide and 6 inches deep. She had to have a new tyre and the tracking realigned at a total cost of £140. I contacted...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer