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  • The AA Urges Caution As Pothole Incidents Rise Across Scotland This Summer

The AA Urges Caution As Pothole Incidents Rise Across Scotland This Summer

The AA is warning motorists to take extra care on Scotland’s roads after a spike in pothole-related call-outs in July raised fresh concerns for holidaymakers and cyclists.

Although figures from January to July 2025 show a 6.99% fall in incidents compared with the same period last year, the AA Pothole Index recorded a 5.87% increase for July alone. The sudden rise has prompted the motoring organisation to issue seasonal safety advice, advising drivers to lower their speed on roads known to be affected and to allow extra space when overtaking cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

The surge in July is thought to be linked to the summer heat, which places added strain on road surfaces and tyres. According to the AA, several factors are contributing to the issue:

  • More motorists heading out on road trips, often on rural routes where repairs are less frequent.
  • Hot weather making worn tyres more likely to fail.
  • Heat accelerating the deterioration of already damaged road surfaces.

    • Data shows that July 2025 saw 5,373 pothole-related incidents, compared with 5,075 in July 2024. While still below the record highs of 2023 and 2024, the latest figures highlight that the problem remains significant.

    Tony Rich, AA head of road safety, said: “We had hoped the worst was behind us thanks to improved road maintenance and government funding, but the July spike shows that potholes remain a serious hazard – especially in hot weather when road surfaces and tyres are under more stress.

    With Scotland’s scenic roads proving as popular as ever with tourers, both in motorhomes and on two wheels, we urge all road users to remain vigilant to uneven road surfaces.”