THE number of pay-outs to drivers for pothole damage in Herefordshire has been revealed.

There were 332 claims for pothole damage to vehicles from August 31 last year to August 31 this year.

But only 23 of these claimants received compensation, with the average pay-out value being £487.72.

The figures were revealed in a freedom of information request to Herefordshire Council, with the response published on September 12.

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The average total pay-out figure per year from 2019 to 2022 was £3,067.

But in November last year, the total figure for pay-outs to drivers in 2023 had reached £8,119, showing a sudden increase after a four-year lull.

Data for the last seven years shows that the council spends between £1.6 million and £2.1 million on repairing potholes per year.

Claims against vehicle damage can be made via the council’s website. But applicants must prove that the road had not properly maintained and was dangerous, and that this caused the damage.

The council will reject claims where it can show it took “all reasonable steps” to ensure the road was safe.