Pothole damage may cost taxpayers R8.6m 15.03.2024

Published 1h ago

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A pothole in the road may come at a high price for the MEC of Public Works and Roads in the North West, as a motorist who was seriously injured after his car hit a pothole is claiming R8.6 million for his medical expenses, as well as other damages.

Petrus Jacobs turned to the North West High Court, sitting in Mahikeng following his harrowing experience after his car had hit a massive pothole on a gravel road.

He was travelling along a road known as the Sterkstroom gravel road in the Klerksdorp area when the car he was driving hit a pothole. He lost control, and collided with a tree on the side of the road.

Jacobs’ case was based on the argument that the MEC is liable for his damages as that office has a legal duty maintain the road in question, keep it in a state of good repair and upkeep, and to ensure the safety of all road users.

As a result of the accident, he suffered various fractures, contusion of the lungs, soft tissue injuries and injuries to his lungs. He claimed damages in the amount of R8.6m for past and future medical expenses, past and future loss of earnings and general damages.