Alison Smith, a 48-year-old business owner, has criticized the council after losing seven teeth and sustaining a hand injury when she tripped over a pothole in the dark on the Isle of Wight. The incident occurred in January 2025 as Smith was walking to meet her daughter on Shore Road in Ventnor. The road, described as poorly lit and lacking a pavement, made it difficult to see the hazard.

Smith reported the fall to Island Roads, which is responsible for maintaining the roads on the Isle of Wight. The company subsequently filled the pothole but denied her claim for compensation. Smith stated that her foot became caught in the pothole's edge, causing her to fall and lose her teeth. She also experienced bruising and has since developed mobility issues with her left hand, limiting her ability to lift herself.

Business owner Alison Smith, 48, said her life changed forever when she was walking to meet her daughter at night and tripped on a three-inch deep pothole in a dark, unlit area

Her daughter, who was 17 at the time of the incident, discovered Smith covered in blood and was left traumatized by the scene. Smith reported that she was unable to visit her own mother, who was undergoing brain surgery for a tumor on the same day, due to the distress her injuries caused. The incident has had a significant impact on Smith's life, including her ability to work at her café, Gaslight, in Sandown, due to the physical limitations imposed by her hand injury. She also had to temporarily stop singing with bands and providing food deliveries due to the heavy lifting involved.

Ms Smith said she temporarily had to give up singing with bands such as Ska'd For Life

Smith has undergone extensive dental work, including temporary false teeth, but has not been able to afford dental implants. She expressed her frustration, stating that the incident has ruined her life and that she seeks acknowledgement and a commitment to preventing similar incidents, rather than solely financial compensation. She added that if the pothole could cause such severe injury to her, it could be fatal for elderly individuals.

Ms Smith said her daughter, who was 17 at the time, was left 'traumatised' after finding her mother covered in blood

An Island Roads spokesperson stated that the claim was thoroughly investigated and a formal response was issued in April 2025. They confirmed that the road was inspected in October 2024 and no defects requiring intervention were identified at that time. Following the incident, the pothole in question, along with another nearby, was repaired. However, Island Roads concluded that they are unable to accept liability for the incident, emphasizing that all claims are assessed consistently based on available evidence and legal responsibilities.