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Motorists Driven to Despair by the State of UK Roads

by Paul Baxter | 12th July 2024

UK motorists are facing increasing frustration and despair over the deteriorating state of roads, both locally and nationwide. According our recent research, a staggering 78% of drivers believe that the roads in their local area have worsened over the past two years. This sentiment is echoed on a broader scale, with 81% of motorists stating that UK roads, in general, have deteriorated during the same period.

Our study reveals a particularly grim picture when looking at the specifics - 55% of respondents say that the state of roads within a five-mile radius of their homes has considerably declined.

The prevalence of potholes continues to be a major issue. More than a quarter (26%) of those surveyed have reported potholes to their local councils, with motorcyclists being the most proactive (54%), followed by cyclists (41%), and motorists (28%). Despite these efforts, many feel their concerns are falling on deaf ears. A significant 25% of those who reported potholes say they have never been repaired. Meanwhile, 34% report that repairs were completed within four weeks.

Although it is worrying to see that so many people believe their local roads and those in the UK in general are getting worse, it probably confirms the views of millions of us regarding the state of the roads. Badly maintained roads are a major risk for drivers, not only from the damage done to cars by driving into potholes but also from the potential to cause accidents, which underlines the need for comprehensive car insurance to help cover repair bills. Poor road maintenance and potholes also make it difficult for motorists to drive in an environmentally conscious way.

Despite the concerns around the length of time it takes for potholes to get repaired, we still encourage all motorists to continue to report potholes to their local councils either via the GOV.UK website in England and Wales or via mygov.scot and nidirect in Scotland and Northern Ireland.