How to Report a Michigan Pothole claim in Michigan’s three biggest Counties
Winter brings some driving risks, but the Michigan pothole is the most hated. An encounter with one can leave damaged tires, wheels, and suspension components. The information below will give you the steps to file a pothole claim.
Drivers can notify the state of existing potholes by filing a report with MDOT’s Report a Pothole form or calling (888) 296-4546 to report potholes on state roads. The websites for Michigan’s three biggest counties to report potholes claims:
Oakland County
Wayne County
Macomb County
Filing a Michigan Pothole claim with the State of Michigan:
To make a Claim with MDOT, you must show that MDOT:
- Failed to maintain the actual roadbed of the highway in reasonable repair to prove a highway defect claim.
- That MDOT knew of the condition and had an opportunity to repair it.
- That the pothole was there for more than 30 days. and was not repaired
- The state only will consider damages not covered by your insurance company.
Steps to make a Michigan Pothole claim with the State of Michigan
- Download the PDF file for Form #3600.
- Print and fill out the form. The state will return all incomplete forms. Documents must be signed and notarized to be processed. Be sure to make a copy for your records.
- Attach documentation to support your claims, such as copies of car repair estimates or actual bills paid for out-of-pocket repairs. Also would be wise to take a picture of the pothole and the damage to your vehicle.
- Return the completed form and your documentation to the MDOT Region or County office where the pothole damage occurred.
Filing a State of Michigan Pothole Claim under $1,000
Upon receiving your damage claim under $1,000, MDOT will investigate the incident to determine if they are responsible. They will make every effort to respond to your claim within 90 days. The governmental immunity laws deny the majority of claims.
The incident must have occurred on a state road. Most state roads are freeways and begin with M, I, or US designations (e.g., I-94, I-96, I-696 or M-14, M-1, US-10, US-24, etc.). If you are not sure you were on a state road, please contact your local MDOT office or county road commission to verify road jurisdiction. You need to submit the claims to the county where the pothole damages.
Filing a State of Michigan Pothole Claim over $1,000
If the Pothole damage is $1,000 or more, you can recover only by filing a lawsuit against MDOT. You should consult a private attorney if you want to pursue this option.
How to file an insurance claim for Michigan pothole damage to your car
Finally, your auto insurance will likely treat the pothole damage as a collision claim, but whether that’s the case will depend on how your insurance company covers these claims. Your Insurance collision coverage can cover the damage a pothole causes under the portion of your Michigan auto insurance policy. There are some things to remember. It might not be covered if the damage is to the tire only. Damage to the vehicle is subject to the collision deductible. The insurance companies could treat this type of claim as an at-fault accident, and it may affect your rates. Check with your agent before proceeding with a pothole claim.
Find out more information on how to avoid Michigan potholes.
