Potholes cause not only inconvenience but also accidents. These accidents can lead to various injuries that can cause financial and mental damage to an individual. The prevalence of these potholes is a danger to road users.
We will review the specifications of a pothole considered claimable in the UK. Potholes of specific depths can be claimed for causing harm to the road users.
How deep does a pothole have to be to claim?
Knowing how deep does a pothole have to be to claim Is essential to build a claim. A pothole is a significant surface disruption that can cause damage to vehicles and pose a risk to road users. It is a damaged part of the road that is unsafe for road users.
The size and depth of what constitutes a pothole are not universally standardized across the UK. Generally, the rule is the pothole needs to be deeper than 25mm (1 inch) to claim the council responsible.
Why is the council responsible for potholes? A person can file a claim against the council overseeing the roads. These authorities have a duty of care, and not fixing a pothole breaches that duty.
How do you get compensation for pothole damage?
Collecting evidence is crucial to present compelling evidence to support your case. This evidence helps establish the presence of the pothole and prove its impact on the accident or damage. Here are critical types of evidence that can strengthen a pothole damage claim:
Photographs: Photos should clearly show the pothole and its dimensions (depth and width). Including an object for scale (like a ruler or coin) is beneficial.
Medical Reports: These should detail the extent of the injuries, the treatment required, and any long-term repercussions. This documentation is crucial for personal injury claims.
Witness Statements: If there were any eyewitnesses to the incident, their statements strengthen your case.
Repair Bills: These documents clearly indicate the financial impact of the pothole damage.
Location Details: Be specific about the location of the pothole. This helps identify the authority responsible for road maintenance.
No Win No Fee Solicitors
It is advised to seek legal advice for claiming pothole damage from council. These solicitors handle countless cases throughout the year for claims on such matters. They will expertly guide you on the validity of your case and the amount of compensation that can be expected.
Solicitors work on a no-win, no-fee policy. What is a no-win, no-fee pothole damage claim? The lawyer will only be paid once the claim has been won. This is why they are experts at accessing the claim before taking someone as a client.
Now you know how deep does a pothole have to be to claim. You can be aware of the safety of your roads and help create a better and safer experience by holding negligent parties responsible. If you or your loved ones have experienced damages caused by a pothole, you must collect the evidence and take legal action. The authority in breach of duty of care should be held responsible for their negligence. This pushes them to do a better job at maintaining our roads and safety.