Horrible Road could damage your TVR

[johnwilk]

This morning I drove into work in my Tuscan same as every morning but, with no warning encountered a huge hole in the road at the roundabout on A309 intersecting with Claygate lane. The hole had no warning or indication of its existence and the Tuscan dropped suddenly and crashed through the dip hitting something underneath on the way through. If the wheels were not square, they are now! I have made representations to Elmbridge Borough Council and their Chief Engineer is checking it out - he says it's TRANSCO who is to blame. Has anyone else encountered this problem? I would appreciate an email in support of its existence (One of my work colleagues also hit the problem). Thanks in advance.

John

>>> Edited by johnwilk on Monday 28th January 11:15

[Nick M (nmilton)]

I think you'll find it's still the council's responsibility to keep the roads maintained in a safe state - they have to police Transco, not try and pass the buck.

I know of several people who have got new alloy wheels and other damage repaired after similar problems. Keep chasing the council (in writing) and claim on their insurance. Also, take the car somewhere to get it checked out and take photos and make a list of what damage has been inflicted.

[smeagol]

Get photos of the hole in the road, quick. You may need it to prove it was the road. I lost an exhaust with a crap surface and complained to the council. lo and behold the hole was filled before I could get back. (I was much younger in those days and didn't realise you could claim) even so the council were very quick off the mark.

[SMiles]

Sound advice get photos - of both the hole in the road, and it's positioning in the road. ie proximity from the kerb. If there is a space in the traffic chuck a ruler into the photo for scale. Also get photos of any damage to the car (preferably dated).
I had to claim for car damage from transco, they are darned sneaky and will pass you around until they hope you give up. You will probably find you have to deal with a subcontractor which makes life even more difficult. Do not give up though. Only by protesting against these irritants can we make themgo away.

good luck

SMiles

[McNab]

John, from what you say you shouldn't have much difficulty. By blaming TRANSCO the Council acknowledge that a problem exists, but photo vital nevertheless. In this part of the world these things are definitely the Council's responsibility.

Same thing happened to me a few years ago - two square alloy wheels as a result. Council paid up without argument.

[hertsbiker]

hi all, is it the advent of super low profile tyres that has allowed wheels to get damaged more easily?

I only just read this thread, 'cos I had just finished praising 4x4's elsewhere, for their ability to deal with holes & stuff.

[johnwilk]

Thanks for all the advice guys. I went into Mole Valley today and discovered the worst - 4 knackered wheels, 2 shagged shockers and one angry owner (me). Needless to say I have sent the appropriate letters asking the trench maniacs ( a company working for TRANSCO called Morrisons)to refund my £1600 +VAT bill for the above!

Certainly proves that the wheels are soft! but the shockers being damaged by this trench is worrying.
As a point of interest someone else in my office drove over the same trench with no apparent effects! Mind you he was driving a Suzuki car thing.



>> Edited by johnwilk on Wednesday 30th January 09:12

[Straga]

To expand upon this theme does anyone know the best way to complain about the general state of our roads and road repairs ? I am sadly beging to understand the popularity with 4 x 4's and mountain bikes etc.

[hertsbiker]

John,
how much susp travel is there on your car? I 'spose if the bump exceeded the available travel + tyre deformation, the shock takes the full vehicle weight, PLUS inertia...? bet it was quite a bang.
Also, check the tyre pressures - raise 'em a bit to save wheel damage at the slight expense of ride comfort.

Carl