The Roads Directorate is responsible for the state of the state roads. But a boom in claims for damages following injuries paints a grim picture.
Last year's winter with wet and cold weather had a significant impact on the road network in several places in the country. The large amounts of rain combined with frost made it challenging to keep up with the repairs of the many potholes that arose as a result of the weather conditions.
The Roads Directorate, which is responsible for the maintenance of the state roads in Denmark, has also felt the consequences. The number of cases where motorists claim compensation for damage to their cars has increased significantly compared to previous years.
This is what Autoparts24 writes in a press release .
A settlement from the Road Directorate shows that in the whole of 2023 there were 210 cases of compensation. In 2024, however, the number has already reached 360 cases in the first six months alone, which is an increase of 70 percent compared to the whole of last year.
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Although not all cases relate to potholes in the roads, Troels Meier, director of Autoparts24, points out that last year's winter weather has played a significant role in the increase in compensation claims.
– It was a very hard winter for the roads, and this can clearly be seen in the number of damages to cars. Although the Norwegian Road Administration has worked intensively to repair the damage, they have not been able to achieve everything, says Meier.
Despite the high number of cases, it is only in a few cases that compensation is paid. In order to obtain compensation, it must be possible to prove that the Roads Directorate has acted irresponsibly by not repairing a known traffic hazard hole. In most cases, however, the Norwegian Roads Administration has been able to document that they have initiated the necessary measures when they have become aware of damage.
Going forward, it is estimated that similar challenges may arise, as climate change with wetter winters is likely to continue. This could lead to more problems with potholes in the future.
Troels Meier therefore encourages motorists to be aware of the road conditions and take responsibility when they come across dangerous potholes in the roads.
– It is important to ensure correct tires and tire pressure, as well as to be foresight and slow down on damaged roads. If you experience potholes that are dangerous to traffic, you must report it to either the municipality or the Road Directorate, so that the damage can be repaired, explains Meier.
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