A new survey from Hagerty has revealed widespread frustration among UK drivers over the condition of the nation’s roads, with the vast majority of respondents claiming they are now in a serious state of disrepair.
The survey gathered opinions from more than 1,200 drivers across the UK, with most describing worsening road conditions and frequent encounters with potholes.
According to the results, 98% of respondents believe UK roads are currently in poor condition. In addition, 90% said their local roads have deteriorated further over the last 12 months, highlighting a growing concern among motorists about the lack of repairs and ongoing maintenance.
Damage caused by potholes appears to be a common experience, too. Nearly three-quarters of drivers surveyed (73%) reported that their vehicle had suffered damage after hitting a pothole.
Despite many motorists attempting to report issues, progress appears limited. More than half of respondents said they had contacted their local council about potholes, but only seven per cent felt their local authority resolved the problem quickly, if at all.
The state of the roads is also having a noticeable impact on drivers themselves. More than half (54%) said they felt anxious while driving, while 78% admitted feeling frustrated by road conditions. Half of those surveyed also said the need to constantly scan the road surface for potholes is distracting, which raises further safety concerns.
Many drivers now rely on navigation apps such as Waze to warn them about potholes ahead, showing how routine the issue has become.
Respondents did not hold back in sharing their views, with many describing the condition of UK roads as “dangerous”, “a disgrace”, and even “a national embarrassment”. Some drivers said they now spend more time looking immediately in front of the car for potholes rather than focusing further down the road, making driving both more tiring and less safe.
Owners of classic vehicles appear particularly concerned. The survey found that 93 per cent of classic car owners feel nervous about taking their vehicles out on roads in their current condition, worried that potholes and poor surfaces could cause expensive damage.
“Our survey shows that Britain’s drivers are now fed up with the condition of our roads with many expressing their frustrations in a very clear manner. Households are having to find money to fix damage to their cars, sometimes extensive and expensive. As a company who champions cars being used and cherished by enthusiasts it’s very concerning to hear that the state of disrepair is making owners nervous to even take their cars out,”
Mark Roper, Managing Director of Hagerty UK
The issue also concerns industry bodies such as the Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance.
“Road safety matters to us all, yet Britain’s deteriorating road network suggests it is slipping down the list of safety priorities. The Department for Transport has a Road Maintenance Ratings map intended to name and shame local authorities into improving road maintenance; however, this reactive approach misses the bigger picture. Britain must move away from a ‘fix it when it fails’ mindset. Preventative maintenance is not only safer and more cost-effective, but it also keeps Britain moving safely and efficiently and protects taxpayer investment in the road network.“
Dale Keller, CEO of the Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance
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