Pothole-related breakdowns surged by 17% in the final quarter of 2024, with RAC patrols attending 4,709 incidents between October and December – up from 4,040 in the previous quarter. Damaged suspension springs, distorted wheels, and punctured tyres accounted for a significant proportion of breakdowns, with 39% of winter incidents caused by tyre damage – the highest rate recorded last year.

As National Pothole Day on 15 January 2025 highlights Britain’s road conditions, the data underscores the significant costs and inconvenience potholes continue to impose on drivers.

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “The poor condition of Britain’s roads is by far and away drivers’ top concern, yet despite the mild weather our figures show there was no relief from the problem in the final quarter of 2024 – with our patrols attending more pothole-related breakdowns compared to three months earlier.

“In the aftermath of this month’s blast of snow and ice, we may see the unwelcome trend continue in 2025 as excess water freezes and expands in cracks on the roads. To prevent water-damaged roads in future, we urge local highways authorities to resurface those in the worst condition and surface dress other roads to stop them deteriorating further.

The Government’s £1.6 billion funding announcement in December aims to address the crisis, with plans to repair over seven million potholes in 2025/26. However, 25% of this funding is tied to local councils demonstrating efficient resource use and prioritising preventative maintenance.

Data from the 2024 Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance (ALARM) survey estimates that clearing England and Wales’ road repair backlog would cost £16.3 billion. In 2024 alone, motorists spent £1.48 billion on pothole-related vehicle repairs – a 61% increase since 2018, though lower than 2023’s £1.67 billion total. The average repair bill for damage beyond punctures stands at £460 – far exceeding the £260 average compensation paid out by councils per claim in 2023.

The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) welcomed the funding increase, calling it a critical step in addressing the impact of extreme weather on road surfaces. Recent storms and freezing conditions are expected to worsen road deterioration in 2025 as frozen water expands cracks further. The CIHT emphasises the importance of proactive maintenance to improve road resilience and support decarbonisation efforts.