Potholes can be more than just an annoyance—they can cause real damage to your vehicle. But if your car suffers damage from a pothole, who foots the repair bill? Here’s what you need to know, especially if you’re driving in Rochester, NY.
The City of Rochester’s Policy
If your vehicle is damaged by a pothole on a city street, the City of Rochester may cover the repair costs—but only under specific conditions. The city will compensate for damages if:
1. The pothole was previously reported.
2. The damage occurred after the report was made.
If the pothole hadn’t been reported before the damage, the city is not liable.
To make the reporting process simple, Rochester provides an interactive online map where you can check if a pothole has already been reported. If it hasn’t, you can report it to help prevent future incidents for other drivers.
Potholes on State Roads
For potholes on expressways (like I-390, Route 104, or Route 490), the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible. Reporting potholes to the state is easy—just call their hotline at 1-800-POTHOLE.
Monroe County Roads
If the pothole is in a surrounding town or within Monroe County, you can report it on the Monroe County website to ensure it gets fixed.
Insurance and Pothole Damage
If the city, county, or state won’t cover your damage, your auto insurance might—but it’s not always the best option. Pothole damage claims fall under collision coverage, which means you’ll have to pay your deductible first.
Most pothole-related damages (e.g., a popped tire, bent rim, or alignment issues) are relatively minor and often cost less than $1,000 to repair. If you have a $500 deductible, for example, it may not be worth filing a claim for a $600 repair.
Why You Should Think Twice About Filing a Claim
Filing a claim can impact your insurance rates, as it’s classified as an accident under your collision coverage. Frequent claims could lead to higher premiums—or even result in your policy not being renewed.
Pro Tip: Protect Your Vehicle and Wallet
- Report potholes promptly to the city, county, or state.
- Consider the cost of repairs versus your deductible before filing a claim.
- Reach out to your insurance provider for guidance if you’re unsure.
Got questions about auto, home, or business insurance? Feel free to give us a call—we’re here to help.
Stay safe, and drive carefully! 🚗
