Glasgow Pothole Damage: Can You Claim Against the City Council?

Glasgow drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists know the frustration all too well. Huge, unrepaired potholes across the city centre, the West End, and the Southside are causing massive damage to vehicles and, more worryingly, serious personal injuries.

The Legal Responsibility of Glasgow City Council

Under the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984, local authorities like Glasgow City Council have a statutory duty to maintain public roads to a safe standard. If they fail to inspect the roads properly, or if they ignore reports of a dangerous pothole, they can be held liable for any damage or injury it causes.

Cyclists and Motorcyclists are Most at Risk

While a pothole might cause a burst tyre or broken suspension on a car, for a cyclist or motorcyclist, hitting a deep crater can be catastrophic. We frequently handle claims where riders are thrown from their bikes, resulting in broken collarbones, severe road rash, and head injuries.

Evidence is Crucial

To win a claim against the council, evidence is everything. You must prove the pothole was dangerous (usually over 40mm deep). If safe, take photographs of the pothole with a common object (like a coin or a shoe) next to it for scale. Note the exact location and report it to the council immediately via their website or app.

Making Your Claim

Councils are notoriously difficult to claim against without legal representation. They will often argue that they had a reasonable system of inspection. Our solicitors know exactly how to counter these defenses by requesting the council's maintenance records under Freedom of Information laws.

If you have been injured due to a defective road surface, start your Glasgow personal injury claim today. We fight to secure maximum compensation for your injuries and your damaged property.