10 January 2011

Compare Car Insurance as Pothole Season Approaches

Find out how to compare car insurance policies to ensure you are covered should your car suffer pothole damage.

British roads have taken a hit following the harsh weather experienced last month, and experts expect a rise in car insurance claims as new potholes are revealed.

The AA reported last winter they received three times as many claims between January and March compared with the same period in 2009, and they expect this year to be worse.

The average insurance claim for pothole damage to cars is just over £1,300 – the most costly claim made last year topped £14,000.

"Our claims staff are bracing themselves for a steep rise in reports of cars damaged by potholes,” said Simon Douglas, AA Insurance director.

"When safe to do so it's really important to stop and check your wheels and tyres after hitting a pothole.”

The private car insurance industry recorded £10.5 million spent on cars damaged by potholes over the first three months of 2010.

Local authorities have experienced a 20 percent cut in their road maintenance budgets, meaning many roads will remain damaged.

Hitting a pothole can not only cause damage to the car experiencing it, but can cause the driver to lose control and crash into other vehicles, or other road objects.

Wheels, suspension and bodywork such as wings and sills are the parts most likely to be damaged when a car is confronted with a pothole.

Compare Car Insurance Online

Following the financial hangover of the expensive festive period, many people may be looking to make cuts on their outgoings including car insurance.

If you want to reduce your policy investigate the market for ways you can save money without compromising your cover, so if you were to damage your car due to a pothole you could claim for the repairs.

Many car insurance providers offer discounts for applying online, so check to see how other policies compare with your current one.

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