A recent analysis has uncovered the regions in the UK that have paid out the highest amounts in compensation for pothole damages. According to data collected by Confused.com through Freedom of Information requests, a total of 144,230 compensation claims were submitted to UK councils between 2022 and 2025, resulting in over £11 million in payouts, with £1.1 million paid in 2025 alone.
Despite a significant number of potholes being reported across the UK over the past four years, with over 3.4 million instances, only 18% of them occurred in 2025. Interestingly, the data reveals a decline in the success rate of compensation claims, dropping to 19% in 2025 from 29% the previous year.
Devon topped the list with the highest number of reported potholes between 2022 and 2025, reaching 210,754 cases, yet only 15% of damage claims were approved. West Yorkshire, Northumberland, and Greater London followed with 191,001, 151,485, and 145,618 reported potholes, respectively, each with varying success rates for claims.
Moreover, Greater London led in total claims payouts, with drivers receiving £1,294,566 in compensation over the four-year period, followed by East Sussex, Glasgow, Highland Council, and Oxfordshire. In 2025 alone, UK councils managed to repair 990,840 potholes, with Greater London, West Yorkshire, and Devon being the top areas for pothole repairs.
A survey of 2,000 motorists revealed that more than half of drivers believe road conditions have worsened compared to previous years, with 22% encountering potholes daily. Additionally, the complexity of the council claims process was highlighted, as 18% found it complicated and 36% called for clearer procedures. Successful claimants received an average of £242, slightly exceeding typical repair costs.
To assist drivers in reporting potholes and seeking compensation, Confused.com has introduced a pothole reporting tool that provides local council data on reports, repairs, and claims, facilitating direct communication with authorities to address road damage promptly.
Matt Crole-Rees, a motoring expert at Confused.com, emphasized the importance of gathering evidence and exploring all avenues for compensation following pothole damage. He encouraged drivers to utilize the reporting tool to ensure timely repairs and enhance road safety for all users.