The council is required to maintain the highways to a set standard.
Section 41 of the Highways Act requires the council to maintain the highways. We have a robust system of inspections for roads and paths in place.
The frequency of inspections varies. This is dependant upon the classification of the road or path. If an inspection identifies a defect, repairs will be carried out. This also occurs if a defect is reported to us.
If you have an accident on the highway, any claim against the council must be on the basis that:
- The highway in question has not been maintained appropriately with regard to its importance and use and was therefore dangerous.
- This was the direct cause of the accident.
The council will seek to contest such a claim on the basis that it took all reasonable steps to ensure that the highway was safe.
Some accidents may occur from highway works carried out by a utility company or contractor. In these cases a claim may be against them and not the council.
You can notify us of an incident on the highway which has resulted in damage to a vehicle or personal injury by using the attached form. And we'll investigate all the circumstances.
Please note that fraudulent claims may result in prosecution.
If you have been involved in an incident and wish to make a claim you should complete our online insurance claim form.
In order for an insurance claim to be successful against the council, you must prove that the council has been negligent. It is not sufficient for you to think that because the incident is not your fault, it must be the council's fault. If the council has not been negligent we will defend the claim.