Half of all pothole accidents occur in Riga
Drivers have often complained on social media about the dramatic state of Riga's streets and courtyards - they must navigate between potholes like a slalom course, and every now and then a new hole in the asphalt surprises them on their usual routes. Especially in spring after the snow has melted. The problematic situation in Riga is also confirmed by the CASCO claims received by the insurance company BTA Baltic Insurance Company AAS (hereinafter - BTA). Over the last three years, 945 customers have turned to the insurer for help, and half of them have experienced an accident in the capital.
Potholes are most problematic for drivers in early spring, as new damage develops in the asphalt in winter, which is not visible at first because water has filled in the potholes. Often drivers misjudge the risks and drive into a pothole, but other times there is simply no way to avoid it, because the dangerous obstacle is spotted too late, the street is too narrow to get around the pothole without hitting an oncoming car, or an animal suddenly runs out onto the carriageway, forcing a sudden change of trajectory. In addition, in many cases, the driver's avoidance of potholes leads to more serious accidents involving several vehicles.
"Insurance claims show that potholes most often result in a flat tyre, a bent or cracked rim, a torn bumper or protective cover under the car, a damaged tailpipe or even the handbrake. The average compensation paid out in these accidents is over €500, and the car often needs towing to the workshop. Drivers who have purchased a CASCO policy can survive these situations more easily, as the cost of repairs is covered by the insurer. Good policies also include tow truck services and even an exchange car service so that you don't have to be without your vehicle while it is being repaired." Kārlis Liepiņš, Director of Insurance Claims Department at BTA, recommends purchasing a CASCO policy as the most reliable method of dealing with unexpected expenses.
Drivers should bear in mind that the fight against potholes is a never-ending story. Last winter, the City Council reported that 17 571 square metres of potholes had been repaired, but the weather and heavy traffic are causing more and more damage to the asphalt.
