End of 2024 saw 20% increase in callouts to RAC
The RAC says it saw pothole related breakdowns increase by a fifth in the last three months of 2024. It says the problem highlights issues relating to the condition of the UK’s roads.
Its patrols went to the rescue of 4,709 drivers from October to December for damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension springs or distorted wheels.
It says the call-outs were ‘most likely to be caused by wear and tear from defective road surfaces.’
It adds that it was 669 more than the 4,040 recorded in the third quarter of 2024. The team adds that nearly 40% of breakdowns at the end of last year were the result of punctured tyres.
Experts say that sub-zero temperatures, along with water from rain, melted snow and ice are normally the cause of potholes as water freezes and expands in cracks in the roads.
The RAC says the number of pothole breakdowns could increase in 2025 following the recent severe weather conditions. Last week saw the RAC having one of its busiest periods for breakdowns in the five years since the COVID pandemic.
Drivers’ top concern
‘The poor condition of Britain’s roads is by far and away drivers’ top concern,’ says Alice Simpson, RAC Breakdown spokesperson.
‘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.’
‘Hopefully the Government funding announced before Christmas will go some way towards literally filling in the cracks, giving road users smoother, safer surfaces.’
‘The £1.6bn allocated to pothole repairs is the biggest one-off road maintenance settlement councils in England have ever been given.’
‘What’s especially positive is it comes with guidance to use the money wisely by carrying out preventative maintenance, which we hope stops more potholes appearing in the future.’