Patons Insurance have frequently reported on the damage potholes do to cars and the expense and inconvenience this causes taxi drivers. But they are also a nuisance in another way – one that could land cabbies with £2,500 fines, points on their licence, or even a driving ban.
Most motorists agree that the potholes problem seems to be getting worse, especially as winter approaches, and for taxi drivers and other professional drivers who earn their living on the roads, it is becoming even more of an issue.
Turning into trouble
Insurance comparison site SimplyQuote discovered that 94% of taxi drivers admitted they had to take evasive action to avoid potholes – and the resulting expensive repairs to their vehicles.
With taxi drivers typically covering 46,500 miles each year and carrying about 5,750 passengers, SimplyQuote found that they face an even higher risk of encountering a pothole every day. But many drivers don’t realise that swerving and other similar manoeuvres can lead to fines, penalty points, or even disqualification for careless or inconsiderate driving.
The issue was highlighted in the Banbury Guardian, which reported that if a driver’s actions are deemed reckless, “taxi drivers could be hit with fines of up to £2,500 for not exercising proper caution on the road”.
Counting the cost
For drivers unfortunate enough to hit a pothole, SimplyQuote discovered that more than four out of five (83%) paid for repairs themselves, with only 6% claiming through their taxi insurance.
As previously reported by Patons Insurance, taxi drivers can seek compensation for pothole-related damage by filing a claim either with the local council responsible for the road, the local road authority, or their insurance provider.
But for taxi drivers – who are already deemed higher risk by insurers – they will have to pay their insurance excess, this could void their no-claims discounts, and their premiums may increase when their policy renews.
Chris Richards, CEO of SimplyQuote, said: “Taxi drivers across the UK are undoubtedly struggling as the pothole situation worsens. Costly repairs are the last thing drivers need when they’re already battling the challenges of earning a living in today’s climate. But we want to raise awareness about the options available to those who suffer damage due to an unrepaired pothole.
Illegal manoeuvres
“Unfortunately, many drivers aren’t aware that swerving to avoid potholes could land them in trouble with the law. Our survey found that 66% of drivers didn’t realise it was illegal to swerve.
“Given that 92% of drivers feel the pothole problem in their area is worsening, it’s no surprise that many resort to risky driving manoeuvres to protect their vehicles.
“When claiming for pothole damage, providing comprehensive information, including witness details, will significantly boost the chances of securing compensation.
“If your local council rejects your claim, you can turn to your insurance provider for support. Just be mindful that doing so may impact your no-claims bonus, so it’s worth checking the fine print on your policy. You might also want to get a quote with the claim added to see how much your premium could increase before making a final decision.”
To help stop potholes causing expensive damage to vehicles and committing driving offences, taxi drivers – and all motorists – are advised to drive according to the conditions of the road, slowing down if it is wet or visibility is reduced, and making sure they can safely avoid hazards.
Being able to stop safely before you encounter an obstacle in the road ahead can mean the difference between an uneventful journey and an expensive and inconvenient one.
