Consider compensation if vehicle damaged on substandard roads

Carla Lockhart MP • January 30, 2024

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has urged vehicle owners who experience damage to their motors due to road defects, to explore compensation from the Department for Infrastructure.

The DUP representative said:

 

“Considering compensation from the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) for vehicle damage caused by potholes or road defects is crucial for several reasons.

 

Seeking compensation helps individuals recover repair costs, alleviating financial burdens imposed by unexpected damages caused by the poor state of the road network. Repairs to cars, vans or other vehicles can run to hundreds and even thousands of pounds, and if this is caused by a road defect it is only right that those who are responsible for the maintenance of the roads are liable.

 

The compensation process is there for that reason – to compensate people for damage caused. If anyone wishes to pursue this avenue, I am more than happy to advise as to the process and assist with any claim. Please do not hesitate to get in touch.

 

The clear preference is for DfI to better maintain the road network to avoid vehicle damage. I would urge the Department to repair roads faster, and more comprehensively. This will enhance road safety, and reduce compensation claims.”

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP January 9, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has spoken of her bitter disappointment following confirmation that Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) will not be added to the routine newborn heel-prick screening programme, despite sustained campaigning and evidence that the condition can be treated if identified at birth.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 8, 2026
Confirmation that DAERA will absorb laboratory costs associated with the mandatory pre-movement testing of animals in the designated Bluetongue Temporary Control Zone, has been welcomed by Carla Lockhart MP.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 8, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has described the Labour government’s increased inheritance tax threshold on agricultural and business property relief as a hard-won and welcome concession, but says it remains insufficient.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 7, 2026
As we enter a new year, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has reflected on the challenges of the past 12 months while setting out her priorities for 2026, reaffirming her commitment to serving constituents across the area. 
By Carla Lockhart MP January 6, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed a new local business venture after visiting Morning Buzz Coffee, praising the commitment and initiative behind a one-man operation serving the local community.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 6, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns about the safety of rural roads during the current spell of severe winter weather, following a recent bus incident at Esky and ongoing engagement with Roads Service officials on gritting arrangements, grit salt availability and the treatment of rural routes across the constituency.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 6, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns over significant delays facing women referred to breast clinics under the “red flag” pathway across Northern Ireland, with waiting times stretching far beyond the 14-day target designed to ensure rapid assessment where breast cancer is suspected.
By Carla Lockhart MP December 31, 2025
DUP Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has been a strong adversary for Northern Ireland agriculture over the last twelve months, and has pledged to continue championing the industry in 2026.
By Carla Lockhart MP December 30, 2025
The DUP’s Westminster Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has accused the Labour Government of ‘ stage-managing’ the Farm Profitability Review and deliberately silencing the most serious concern facing farmers – inheritance tax.
By Carla Lockhart MP December 23, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has welcomed the government’s decision to increase family farm tax thresholds, offering long overdue relief to a large number of farming families and rural communities.