While many taxi drivers count themselves lucky for dodging potholes at the last second, their quick reactions could steer them into a lot of trouble, including a driving ban and the loss of their livelihood.
Damage
There have been numerous reports about the damage potholes cause to cars, including wheels and tyres, bumpers, headlights, grilles and even suspensions. These are expensive to repair and taxi drivers are losing money while their vehicles are off the road.
Most motorists agree that the potholes problem seems to be getting worse, especially as the winter weather approaches, and for taxi drivers and other professionals who earn their living on the road, they can cause huge challenges.
But there is a more worrying problem that many taxi and PHV drivers aren’t aware of – one that could land them with £2,500 fines, points on their licences, or even driving bans.
Potholes or points?
Insurance comparison site SimplyQuote discovered that 94% of taxi drivers admitted they had to take evasive action to avoid potholes.
With taxi drivers typically covering 46,500 miles each year and carrying about 5,750 passengers, SimplyQuote calculate that cabbies could encounter a pothole every day. But it warned that many drivers don’t realise that swerving and other evasive manoeuvres can lead to fines, penalty points, or even bans for careless or inconsiderate driving.
The issue was highlighted in the Banbury Guardian, which reported that if a driver’s actions are deemed reckless, “taxi drivers could be hit with fines of up to £2,500 for not exercising proper caution on the road”.
Out of pocket
For drivers unfortunate enough to hit a pothole, SimplyQuote discovered that more than four out of five (83%) paid for repairs themselves, with only 6% claiming via their taxi insurance.
As we have previously reported, taxi drivers can seek compensation for pothole-related damage by filing a claim either with the local council responsible for the road, the local road authority, or their insurance provider.
But for taxi drivers – who are already deemed higher risk by insurers – they will have to pay their insurance excess, the claim could void their no-claims discounts, and their premiums may increase when their policy renews.
Chris Richards, CEO of SimplyQuote, said: “Taxi drivers across the UK are undoubtedly struggling as the pothole situation worsens. Costly repairs are the last thing drivers need when they’re already battling the challenges of earning a living in today’s climate. But we want to raise awareness about the options available to those who suffer damage due to an unrepaired pothole.
Awareness
“Unfortunately, many drivers aren’t aware that swerving to avoid potholes could land them in trouble with the law. Our survey found that 66% of drivers didn’t realise it was illegal to swerve.
“Given that 92% of drivers feel the pothole problem in their area is worsening, it’s no surprise that many resort to risky driving manoeuvres to protect their vehicles.
“When claiming for pothole damage, providing comprehensive information, including witness details, will significantly boost the chances of securing compensation.
“If your local council rejects your claim, you can turn to your insurance provider for support. Just be mindful that doing so may impact your no-claims bonus, so it’s worth checking the fine print on your policy. You might also want to get a quote with the claim added to see how much your premium could increase before making a final decision.”
The advice to prevent damage or driving offences caused by potholes is to always drive within the conditions of the road, slowing down if it is wet or visibility is reduced, and making sure drivers can safely avoid hazards.
Being able to stop safely before an obstacle in the road can mean the difference between a normal journey and an expensive one that could cost a taxi driver their livelihood.