Work In Progress: Has A Pothole Damaged Your Car?

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – If your vehicle was damaged due to dropping into a pothole, you may be eligible for compensation from the Ministry of Works and Utilities.

But in order to begin the process, you are required to submit a claim form, and you’ll be asked to include some important details like your name, address, telephone contact and email address.

You’ll also be required to attach copies of the following documents: your driver’s license, national insurance card, banking information as well as a copy of your insurance policy.

Then comes your personal account of the incident, accompanied by evidence – whether photographs or video and if applicable, you can also include a witness statement and or police report.

Three quotations for the damage are also required.

The ministry notes that consideration for an ex-gratia payment and/or assistance relative to legitimate damages to vehicles allegedly as a result of potholes and other apparent adverse road conditions may be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

There is no guarantee that an offer will be made at all.

Each claim will be investigated by the relevant road engineers and where appropriate technicians of the transport unit of the ministry may also be required to inspect the vehicle and make an assessment.  Claims may also be reviewed by the ministry’s legal unit.

The ministry notes that where deemed appropriate an offer for assistance may be made.  In this case, the claimant will also be required to complete a treasury vendor identification application and execute a deed of release.

Claim forms can be obtained from the security desk at the ministry on JFK Drive.

In the meantime, the ministry is cautioning motorists to be extremely vigilant and reduce their speed when driving.