Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

NEW data from the RAC has revealed that its patrols went out to more than 8,100 pothole breakdowns between April and June, the highest number in five years. Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar comments:- “With more and more callouts for breakdowns likely caused by defective roads, many drivers and cars are at risk of damage from potholes. Our research showed that over half of drivers (54%) have had their car damaged as a result of potholes, with 40% actively avoiding routes that they know are prone to them. If drivers think that their tyres have burst or their car has broken down, they should try to pull over somewhere safe to avoid obstructing other road users. Using hazard lights and if necessary a warning triangle will also help to ensure you are visible to other drivers. Breaking down can be a stressful and potentially dangerous experience, so it’s important to know the steps to take to keep you and your passengers safe. Using our tips for breakdowns, drivers can find out the correct steps to take depending on which type of road they are on should their car break down.”

Also responding to the reports from RAC suggesting they are now attending the highest number of pothole related breakdowns since 2008,

Also responding to the RAC report suggesting they are now attending the highest number of pothole related breakdowns since 2008, Cllr Linda Taylor, Transport spokesperson for the Local Government Association said:- “Councils would much prefer to invest in preventative measures rather than pay compensation or reactively fix potholes, which works out more expensive in the long term. However, even though a recent £200 million boost in this year’s Budget will help, the funding situation still remains very challenging. Despite the best efforts of councils, our local road repair backlog is now the biggest it has ever been. Without any additional funding, it is estimated that it would cost £14 billion and take 11 years to clear. Only by the Government providing Councils with increased and long-term funding certainty can this growing problem be addressed and our roads bought up to scratch.”

Peter B

Wed, 26 July 2023 12:36 pm

I think the Government is trying to stop people from driving by putting even more costs in place for motorists, If you have a large 4x4 you are ok, but for likes of me, the costs of going electric and fixing cars is pricing us off the roads. As a driver, we pay more road tax but the departments are wasting cash on unnecessary bureaucracy and not putting the cash into fixing the roads properly. If Labour gets in, we will also have Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) to deal with as well. Both Labour and Conservatives are as bad as each other, and Greens have no clue. I would vote independently for local issues and would like an end to big party politics, as it is not getting us anywhere. Politicians are not interested in the voters and local area, they just seem to be interested in themselves and the party getting elected back in.