Car Insurance Guide

Does car insurance cover pothole damage?

Written by Chloe Adams Managing Editor Reviewed by Nomsa Dlamini RE5 qualified · 12 years in short-term insurance Updated 26 July 2026 Our editorial standards →

Does car insurance cover pothole damage?

Yes - comprehensive car insurance generally covers damage from hitting a pothole, treating it as accidental damage to tyres, rims, suspension or the undercarriage. Your excess applies, so for a minor repair the cost may be less than the excess. Third-party cover does not pay for pothole damage to your own car. You can also claim from the responsible road authority, though that process is slow and often difficult.

Key takeaways

Comprehensive cover usually treats pothole damage as accidental damage.
Tyres, rims, suspension and undercarriage damage can be claimed.
Your excess applies - small repairs may cost less than the excess.
Third-party only cover does not pay for your own car's pothole damage.
Claiming from the road authority is possible but slow and hard to win.

Claiming on your insurance

Under comprehensive cover, hitting a pothole is usually an accidental damage event, so damage to tyres, rims, suspension components and the underbody can be claimed. Weigh the repair cost against your excess first - for a single tyre and rim, paying out of pocket may be cheaper and protects your no-claim bonus.

Claiming from the road authority

You can lodge a claim against the municipality or road agency responsible for the road, but these claims are notoriously slow and require strong evidence - photos of the pothole, the location, the damage and often proof the authority knew about it. Most drivers find claiming on comprehensive insurance far more practical.

Frequently asked questions

Can I claim for a burst tyre from a pothole?

Under comprehensive cover, yes - but check your excess first. If a single tyre and rim cost less than the excess, it may be cheaper to pay yourself and keep your claims record clean.

Does third-party insurance cover pothole damage?

No. Third-party only cover pays for damage you cause to others, not damage to your own car. You'd need comprehensive cover to claim for pothole damage to your vehicle.

Can I claim pothole damage from the municipality?

You can try, but these claims are slow and hard to win. You'll need strong evidence - photos, location and often proof the authority was aware of the pothole. Insurance is usually the faster route.

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