The scale of the challenge UK van drivers face from potholes has been revealed by Mercedes-Benz Vans research.
Data from the manufacturer’s Under the Bonnet report shows that 22% of those who have hit a pothole needed to spend more than £500 on vehicle repairs as a result.
Mercedes notes that potholes are said to have cost UK motorists an estimated £1.7 billion in 2024 – a 149% increase since 2014.
Mercedes found that 30% of van drivers surveyed would rather sit in hours of Bank Holiday traffic than hit a pothole, while 24% said they would rather receive a parking ticket.
Mercedes, which suggests its Service24h roadside assistance programme can support drivers facing pothole damage, said its Under the Bonnet research has been designed to celebrate 30 years of the Sprinter van by providing an in-depth look at the challenges faced by van drivers in Britain today.
