More than half of drivers say the condition of Dorset road is their 'top motoring concern'
A quarter of Dorset drivers say they’ve spent hundreds of pounds repairing damage caused by potholes
Last updated 14th Aug 2024
Drivers across Dorset are more concerned about the state of local roads than they are the price of fuel or the cost of insurance.
For the first time ever, a majority of drivers – nearly six in ten – say the condition and maintenance of roads is their top motoring concern.
A record proportion of drivers, almost three-quarters (73%), believe the state of roads are worse than they were a year ago.
Mark Davison, committee member of the BCP & Dorset Motorist group, blames poor workmanship and utility companies for digging up roads.
He told us: “When roadworkers fill in potholes or repair roads, frankly, they don't do a good job and unfortunately this is how most potholes start.
“But it’s down to the local authority to make sure these people do the job properly and if they don’t, they should be fined or taxed.”
The RAC’s figures show that the problem of substandard local roads is more acute in rural areas, where 81% of drivers say conditions are worse in 2024 than in 2023.
More than a quarter of drivers (27%) say their vehicle has suffered damage as a result of potholes in the last 12 months, a figure which rises to 32% among those who live in rural areas.
Punctures are the most common problem reported, followed by wheel damage and broken suspension springs.
Mr Davison said: “When you’ve driven over several potholes, you may have a damaged tire, wheel or even suspension.
“A reasonably good quality tire is going to cost you hundreds of pounds, a wheel can be around £300 pounds and suspension could be a lot more than that.
“Now, this presents several safety concerns for example you end up slaloming down the road because you're constantly looking at the state of the road in front so you can avoid potholes and not focussing on being a good, safe driver.”
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “These new figures are a damning condemnation of the commitments made by previous governments to fix Britain’s perpetual pothole plague.
It’s as clear as day that councils simply haven’t had the financial support, they need to bring the standard of the roads in their care up to a reasonable standard.
“Road users, including drivers, bus users, and those on two wheels, who are continuing to pay the price. At best, journeys are made downright uncomfortable as a result of potholes, while at worst they cause expensive damage.”