Motorists may file claims for vehicle damage caused by potholes, but conditions apply. First, the pothole must be located on a state trunkline, which is a highway with an M-, I-, or U.S.- prefix, i.e., M-59, M-36, US-23, I-96.  MDOT only has jurisdiction over state trunklines.  Additionally, to prove a highway-defect claim, state law requires a motorist to show that the road agency failed to maintain the highway in reasonable repair.  The motorist must show that MDOT knew of the condition and had an opportunity to repair it, or that the condition exists for more than 30 days.  Few claims are eligible for payment because potholes develop quickly.  The claim form and instructions are available on MDOT’s website.