The weather and other factors have once again left the roads in a terrible state and potholes have appeared on many roads. Potholes are a constant worry for motorists but many don’t know what to do if their vehicle is damaged by a pothole.
You wouldn’t always be able to claim but it is worth knowing that over 1,500 successful claims for damage to vehicles caused by potholes have been made in Northern Ireland over the last number of years.
Please read our short guide on top tips to follow if your car is damaged and how to make a claim to the Department of Infrastructure.
Top Tips if your Vehicle is damaged by a Pothole
- Put on your hazard lights and stop your vehicle where safe to do so.
- Check for damage to your wheels and tyres. If your vehicle shows signs of vibrations or feels like it is pulling to the side call your recovery provider as more extensive damage can be caused by continuing to drive.
- Record your direction of travel and exact location.
- If safe to do so take several photographs from different distances. If you have any objects in your vehicle such as a water bottle, position these inside the pothole to show perspective of the depth and width.
- Report any defect immediately. See https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/potholes
- Take your vehicle to a garage for repairs and wheel alignment. If applicable ask them to note the cause of damage on your invoice. Keep all documentation in relation to your vehicle repairs, including quotes, receipts, invoices, etc.
- Ask neighbours in the area if they are aware of how long the defect has been present.
Pothole damage claims
How to make a claim to the Department of Infrastructure
- A claim can be made by completing a form available on the NI Direct. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/vehicle-damage-compensation-claim-form
- Send along with photographs, receipts and estimates together with a sketch indicating the location to Transport NI; all contact details available on their website.
- Transport NI will investigate your claim within 6 months of receipt. They may instruct an investigator or loss adjustor.
- If your claim is successful they will offer you a sum of money.
- If you are unhappy with the offer made, or if rejected altogether you can bring your case before a court. This can be a risky, expensive and time consuming process and therefore it is important to seek legal advice to assess your prospects of success.
Northern Ireland’s number 1 personal injury experts can help you.
Established over 20 years and ranking as NI’s Number 1 Personal Injury Solicitors for the last decade, JMK Solicitors assist clients all over Northern Ireland. If you have suffered a personal injury, been in a car accident, or had an accident at work, contact our team for a free consultation.
Call us today on 028 9032 0222 or email us law@jmksolicitors.com
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