How to Report and Get Reimbursed for Pothole Damage

Wheel tracks on damaged road — Source: winnond / Getty

With an arctic blast slashing through many parts of Ohio— drivers are facing hazardous road conditions, including the devious potholes that litter the roadways.

Potholes form when water seeps into cracks in the pavement, freezes, and expands, weakening the road. As traffic passes over these weakened spots, the pavement breaks apart, creating deep holes that can damage tires, suspension, and alignment. If your car is damaged by a pothole in Columbus or surrounding areas, there are steps you can take to report it and potentially receive reimbursement for repairs.

For pothole damage on City of Columbus roads, including portions of State Routes 315, 33, and 104 within city boundaries, reports can be submitted through the 311 Service Center. Once reported, street maintenance investigators will locate and repair the pothole. Reimbursement claims go through the Columbus City Attorney’s Office, but compensation is only granted if:

The city was aware of the pothole but failed to respond in a reasonable timeframe.
The city has been generally negligent in maintaining the roadway.

For pothole damage on state roads or highways, reports and claims should be submitted to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). This includes all interstate highways, U.S. routes, and state routes under ODOT’s jurisdiction. If the damage occurs on the Ohio Turnpike, a separate claim can be filed through the Ohio Turnpike Commission.

Drivers should document the location, time, and extent of damage before filing a claim. While there is no guarantee of reimbursement, following these steps can improve the chances of recovering repair costs.