The nation’s roads have been feeling the effects of record snowfall this winter with potholes appearing at a rate faster than they can be repaired. Along with causing swerving hazards, the small craters are also taking their toll on vehicles across the country. Gabriel Tóth, spokesperson for the insurer Allianz stated in a press release that this winter has seen the insurer register six hundred claims in accident insurance caused solely by potholes, with the cost of damage repair being just under one thousand euro in each case.
“Last winter we had 354 claims caused by potholes which totalled €387,000. Already before the end of February we have registered more claims than in entire winter of last year,” remarked Tóth. The insurance provider Union recorded an increase in claims due to potholes on the road by approximately 30 percent compared with the previous year, according to Union spokesperson Judita Smatanová. According to insurers, clients have reported severed or destroyed tires, along with wheel rim damage, suspension, and axle damage. Before making a claim, both insurers and transport authorities have recommended motorists document and photograph any damage allegedly caused by potholes.
Gavin Shorebridge
