Motorists are being warned that potholes on deteriorating roads could actually pose a risk to life and that the problem is likely to get worse unless local authorities act. 

A wet summer has meant that roads are in a worse condition than expected as water causes greater damage and repairs are harder to carry out. If left, a small pothole will enlarge as vehicles wear away at the edges. This can cause a wide and deep impression in the road that can cause vehicle damage or worse. These holes can also be very hard to spot in wet conditions. 

If a car is moving at speed an impact with a hole that has not been spotted can easily cause a driver to lose control with potentially catastrophic consequences. It can also cause damage to vehicle tyres, steering and suspension and affect four wheel alignment and ADAS systems. 

Gary Digva, founder of road safety experts, Road Angel, comments, “It is shocking to see that the pothole plague is not being taken seriously by local councils given how many people are injured because of them. It is only a matter of time before we start seeing an increase in accidents, injuries and fatalities unless something changes.” 

He added, “Potholes are incredibly dangerous for motorists as they can cause them to lose control, especially if they cause damage to the tyres or suspension. The best advice to motorists, while the roads are in this substandard condition, is to drive with caution at all times and reduce speeds.  Motorists concerned for their safety after hitting a pothole should ensure they go to a qualified mechanic to check the vehicle for any damage”.