Data reveals Donegal has the second-highest payout for vehicle damage claims
Data has revealed that Donegal County Council has the second-highest payout rate for successful vehicle damage claims.
At €267.37, Donegal's average payout for successful vehicle damage claims is among the highest in Ireland, trailing only Wicklow at €271.04.
Donegal’s rate is nearly double the national council average of €157, and miles ahead of Dublin City, which averages just €46.52.
Additionally, Donegal County Council successfully closed out every single reported pothole hazard in 2025.
The information was gathered by an insurance company, its4women, through a pothole index which combined a survey of Irish motorists and nationwide Freedom of Information data.
Gary McClarty, CEO of its4women, praises Donegal’s proactive approach and encourages local drivers to keep the momentum going by safely photographing and reporting any new hazards immediately to help the council maintain its perfect record.
“Potholes are more than just a nuisance - they’re leaving drivers seriously out of pocket. We’re seeing people pay up to €1,000 for damage, particularly to steering and suspension, while the average council payout sits at just €157. For most drivers, that gap simply doesn’t stack up.
“What’s just as concerning is how many people don’t report it. If you hit a pothole, check your vehicle as soon as possible, as damage isn’t always immediately visible. Take a photo, note the location, and report it to your local council. It’s the first step towards making a claim, and it also helps ensure these hazards are fixed before they cause more damage.”
Nationally, 1 in 5 female drivers suffered pothole damage last year, facing repair bills up to €1,000, yet 90% still pay out of pocket rather than claiming.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme