Israeli National Transport Company Ordered to Pay Quarter-Million Shekels to Injured Scooter Rider

The Haifa Magistrate's Court has ruled that Netivei Israel, the National Transport Infrastructure Company, must compensate a scooter rider approximately 216,000 shekels after he was severely injured due to potholes on a road they maintain. The accident occurred in December 2020 on Highway 70 between Somakh and Yagur junctions, when the rider lost control after hitting a series of deep potholes and asphalt peelings, resulting in serious injuries and a 25-day hospitalization. The court found that the road defects were a result of prolonged neglect rather than sudden damage, criticizing Netivei Israel for failing to mark or block the hazardous areas despite the winter season limiting comprehensive repairs.

Netivei Israel denied responsibility, claiming the accident was caused by the rider's negligence, including speeding and insufficient distance from the vehicle ahead. However, Judge Tali Mirum emphasized the company's duty of care as a government entity responsible for road maintenance and noted that the potholes posed a significant danger, especially to two-wheeled vehicles. The court also found that Netivei Israel did not take adequate measures to identify or repair the defects, only performing superficial fixes that did not address the underlying issues.

While the court held Netivei Israel liable, it attributed 25% contributory negligence to the rider for following too closely, which may have prevented him from avoiding the potholes. The final compensation amount was reduced from an estimated 531,000 shekels in damages after deducting social security benefits and the rider's share of fault. The court also ordered Netivei Israel to cover legal fees and court costs. Attorney Batal Manor, representing the rider, stated the verdict sends a clear message to infrastructure bodies about the importance of road safety for two-wheeled vehicle users. Netivei Israel did not respond to requests for comment.