Hot summer weather in 2025 could be to blame for a spike in pothole-related breakdowns, it has been said.
The AA said its Pothole Index for July revealed a year-on-year increase, which it linked to hotter temperatures exacerbating road surface weaknesses and increasing the risk of tyre damage.
The AA said the recent data reversed a trend of improvement seen earlier this year, which it attributed to more extensive road repairs and increased government financial support.
Together with the Pothole Partnership, which also includes JCB, British Cycling, and the National Motorcyclists Council, it has called for urgent action to rectify the issue.
AA president Edmund King said: “This summer’s heatwave has starkly exposed the fragility of Britain’s roads. While investment and repair campaigns have made a difference, the recent setback illustrates that much more must be done to create a safe and reliable road network for everyone.
“We urge the government and local authorities to redouble their efforts in tackling the pothole crisis, prioritising rural routes and frequently used cycling and motorcycling corridors.”