NEW research has revealed just how much potholes really rile motorists across the country, with nearly two thirds of drivers (63 per cent) believing the roads in their area are in poor or very poor condition.

In fact, more than three quarters (76 per cent) think road conditions are worsening, with 70 per cent agreeing councils should commit more resources to fixing potholes.

The study of more than 2,000 motorists by webuyanycar.com found over half (54 per cent) admitted to having had their car damaged as a result of a pothole and a huge 73 per cent know someone who has.

Astonishingly, 75 per cent of drivers have no idea how to submit a claim to their local council for compensation, with just 3 per cent having successfully done so.

A Freedom Of Information request carried out by the company found that over £16m of taxpayers’ money has been paid to drivers for compensation of damage or injury caused by 2.48m reported potholes between 2018 and 2020.

Cheshire West and Chester Council paid out £526,186 in compensation from 2018 to 2020, 87 per cent more than the North West average per thousand inhabitants. Meanwhile, Cheshire East paid out just £64,059, which is 59 per cent less than the regional average.

Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar.com said: "It’s hardly shocking that two thirds of people find potholes to be a major issue but it is surprising to learn that 40 per cent of drivers admit to avoiding routes they know are prone to them.

"Luckily how to sell your car at webuyanycar.com is much easier than trying to avoid potholes.

"While we might not be able to repair the potholes in your area, we can certainly help you sell your car safely and hassle-free, with a valuation in less than 60 seconds and even sell to us the same day."

The survey also revealed drivers find potholes to be one of the biggest annoyances while on the road, with almost 40 percent agreeing they are worse than a driver carrying on when you have right of way.

A further 38 per cent said hitting a pothole was more inconvenient than getting stuck behind a slow driver or middle lane driver, while 34 per cent would rather sit in a traffic jam than drive over a pothole.

Potholes are even more frustrating than tasks off the road too, with 34 per cent saying they are worse than a pointless meeting at work, 31 per cent would rather listen to someone eating loudly and almost 40 percent are annoyed more by potholes than by someone who doesn’t use their manners.