Number of pothole claims sets new record

The city of Edmonton has received about 1,400 claims for vehicle damage caused by potholes,making 2013 a record-setting year.

"Most years we have under 200," said Don Marshall, the citys director of risk management.

"Our worst year to date, before this year, was about 1,100 claims. And we thought that was a bit of an anomaly. But this year has been by far the worst."

Once the city receives the claim, staff investigate whether they should be paid. Marshall said the entire process takes about six to eight weeks.

He couldnt say how many claims have been approved so far, but said the city usually denies between 75 to 80 per cent of them.

People usuallyput in submissions for damaged rims and tires, but this year, the city is receiving claims for more significant damage, Marshall said.

"Thats directly related to the state of repair of the roadways," he said. "Some of the potholes were fairly significant and some of them were in fairly high-speed locations."