Your car and damage from Potholes. Can you file a claim?

This winter’s exceptionally cold temperatures and near record snowfall produced mega potholes galore. Did you know you may be able to file a claim with the City, Township or Village?

The best way to deal with potholes is with prevention. Of course it’s a good idea to slow down, keep a close eye on the road and watch if the cars in front of you are trying to avoid potholes. Beyond that, also try to:

• Be extra cautious when it rains. Wet roads are slick—and potholes filled with water are harder to spot.
• Check your tire pressure. Properly inflated tires can weather potholes better than underinflated or overinflated tires.
• Avoid braking. If you can’t avoid a pothole, don’t use your brakes. It will likely cause more damage than simply rolling through the pothole.

If you notice an especially dangerous pothole on a busy road, make sure to notify the appropriate city or township.

How to file a pothole claim

Fortunately many—but not all—cities let you file a pothole claim if your car sustains substantial damage from a pothole on a state or city roadway. The process varies by state and city, but here are a few helpful tips that’ll help you make your case no matter where you live. (Check in with the state or city where your car sustained damage for specific instructions on how to file a pothole claim.)

• Keep a detailed record of the date and time; take photos if you can. 
• Get the contact information of any witnesses. 
• File a police report. 
• Get estimates (usually no more than 2) to submit with your claim. 
• File your claim promptly; failure to do so could result in a denial.

There’s no guarantee your claim will be accepted but it’s still worth a try.