🚗 How to Report a Michigan Pothole Claim in Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties

Michigan winters bring snow, ice, and — worst of all — potholes. These pavement craters can destroy tires, crack wheels, and damage your car’s suspension. If you’ve hit a pothole and suffered vehicle damage, this guide will walk you through how to report it and whether you should file a claim with the state or your insurance.

📍 Reporting a Michigan Pothole

To keep roads safe, Michigan drivers can report potholes directly to the state or their local county.

Here’s how:
✅ MDOT Pothole Reports: Use the MDOT Report a Pothole form or call 888-296-4546 for potholes on state roads (like I-94, I-96, M-14, and US-10).

🛠️ Filing a Pothole Damage Claim with the State of Michigan

If your car has been damaged by a pothole on a state road, you may be eligible to file a claim with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

📝 What You Need to Prove

  • The pothole existed for more than 30 days without repair.
  • MDOT knew about the pothole and failed to fix it.
  • Your auto insurance does not currently cover the damage.

Note: Michigan’s governmental immunity laws typically deny most claims, but it’s crucial to comprehend the process.

🧾 How to File a Claim Under $1,000

  1. Download and print Form #3600.
  2. Fill out all necessary sections (they will return incomplete forms).
  3. Sign and notarize the form.
  4. Attach supporting documents:
    • Take pictures of the pothole and any damage to the car.
    • Repair estimates or paid bills.
  5. Please submit your claim to the MDOT regional office corresponding to the area where the damage occurred.

MDOT aims to investigate and respond within 90 days.

💼 Claims Over $1,000

If your repair costs exceed $1,000, you must file a lawsuit against MDOT to recover damages. It’s wise to consult a private attorney for help with this process.

🏦 Should You File a Pothole Insurance Claim?

Sometimes, filing an insurance claim is easier:

  • Collision coverage under your Michigan auto policy may cover pothole damage.
  • Usually, insurance doesn’t cover tire-only damage.
  • Claims are subject to your collision deductible.
  • Insurance companies may treat the claim as an at-fault accident, possibly affecting future rates.

👉 Tip: Contact your insurance agent before filing a pothole claim to understand the costs and potential impacts.

🛡️ Final Tips to Avoid Michigan Pothole Damage

  • Watch road surfaces carefully, especially after snow melts.
  • Keep tires properly inflated.
  • Maintain a safe following distance to spot potholes early.

For more pothole survival strategies, visit State Farm’s Pothole Safety Guide.

👉 Need help with your auto insurance after a pothole accident? Click Get Quote to speak with a Michigan insurance expert for personalized advice and a free quote.