Pothole Repair: How Uneven Surfaces and Potholes Increase the Risk of Slips and Trips

When it comes to slips and trips, some of the main causes of these accidents are potholes and uneven surfaces.

Whether you’re walking in a car park, or even just on footpaths, poorly maintained surfaces can lead to a slip or trip that could result in serious injury, which is why pothole repair is essential.

A typical compensation claim for a slip or trip caused by a pothole could be anywhere between £10K – £20K for a severe wrist injury, rising to £45K – £80K for modest brain injuries that affect concentration and memory.

Potholes are a major trip hazard

Potholes are formed by the expansion and contraction action when water seeps into the asphalt surface and freezes. This process creates cracking to the surface and over time these cracks deteriorate leaving behind open voids.

Potholes can be sharp and dangerous, with edges that can cause a person to trip and fall. They can also be filled with water or covered by leaves, creating a slippery surface that is hard to see, which can easily lead to a slip-and-fall accident.

Pothole repair is essential: uneven surfaces put people at risk

Uneven surfaces are another major cause of slips and trips. Uneven surfaces can be caused by weathering, erosion, or poor construction, but the result is the same. Uneven surfaces can cause a person to trip and fall, resulting in serious injury.

Pothole repair: keep people safe on your sites

Maintaining your car park and footpaths from potholes and surface defects is essential to keeping people safe. You have a duty of care to keep people safe when they’re on your site. You should check your estate regularly for any signs of damage or wear that could lead to potholes forming – this is especially important during winter.

When it comes to potholes, our advice is simple: be proactive rather than reactive. Regular site inspections and the immediate repair of any defects will keep you one step ahead of potential problems and compensation claims.

Find out how our all-round team delivers tech-enabled smart winter maintenance, pothole repair and other services…