The AA attended an extra 225 pothole breakdowns a day in November as the UK’s awful weather and awful roads combined to damage vehicles.

Rain-obscured potholes can be fatal for cyclists and motorcyclists

The vehicle recovery specialist warned that heavy rain and standing water were hiding potholes from plain sight, causing a rise in pothole-related breakdowns. As a result, blowouts, punctures and suspension damage are now common.

But aside from the costs and hassle of vehicle breakdowns, the AA warned that rain-obscured potholes can be fatal for cyclists and motorcyclists. Recently released Coroners’ reports identify how two cyclists sadly lost their lives, both due to potholes and local authorities failings in monitoring and repairing the road.

And with Road Safety Week underway, the AA is warning drivers and riders to beware of the road surface lurking underneath standing water.

Ahead of this Thursday’s Autumn Statement, it’s also urging the Chancellor and Prime Minister to “at the very least” maintain local roads maintenance funding with their announcement on Thursday.

Edmund King, AA president, said: “Potholes hidden by rainfall are one of the worst things all road users must overcome when they head out.

“Well-hidden potholes, deeper than expected and with the ability to cause monumental damage, mean our crumbling roads are deteriorating at a rapid rate.

“An additional 225 pothole related breakdowns a day in November alone is shocking and will only worsen as more rain is predicted and the weather turns cold – causing more damage along the way.

“On safety grounds alone, we need to see local road investment maintained, but the reality is our residential streets need a massive cash injection. Hopefully the Chancellor and Prime Minister can level up our roads on Thursday.”