More Ohio drivers making pothole claims this year

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — More Ohio motorists are looking for repayment from the state for pothole damage to their cars, nearly tripling the number of claims filed in 2013.

The Dayton Daily News reports nearly 300 pothole damage claims have been filed statewide so far this year, outnumbering last year’s total of 110 claims.

Clerk of the Ohio Court of Claims Mark Reed tells the newspaper the court doesn’t track how many claims are successful, but estimates about half of motorists win some compensation.

The state allows drivers to file claims for damage caused from potholes, but they must prove that the Ohio Department of Transportation maintains the road and that the state was aware of the hazardous road conditions.

Drivers who are denied reimbursement for pothole damage must also pay court costs.