Of the claims filed before Sept. 7, 2016, 56 were denied for no proof of project connection, pothole or road defect or no project negligence.

Local Orlando TV news affiliate WESH is reporting that since the Interstate 4 Ultimate construction project officially started Feb. 1, 2015, there have been 87 claims filed by drivers who say the project damaged their vehicle.

WESH 2 News uncovered the claims in a public records request through the Florida Department of Transportation.

Of the claims filed before Sept. 7, 2016, 56 were denied for no proof of project connection, pothole or road defect or no project negligence.

Twenty-two of the claims, however, have been closed and insurance paid out $14,729.45.

Here are some of the larger claims paid:

* CL (claim) alleges tire & rim damage from pothole: $2123

* CL alleges vehicle damage from driving through flooded ramp: $723

* CL alleges vehicle damage from driving through flooded ramp: $1,037

* CL alleging vehicle damage from pothole: $1,607

* SGL crew dropped demo concrete on vehicle, accepted liability: $1,909

Some drivers said they are not concerned about the incidents and believe that the construction is necessary.

"I drive 17 miles each way on I-4 and I've not had any incidents to date. I'm more concerned about the other drivers," Max Rickard said.

"I saw when the lady hit the pothole on I-4, that was crazy, but I never hit one myself. "It just makes it all worse with the construction. I know it's for the better, but it's terrible right now," Shaunacey Mack said

Nine of the 87 claims are still open and under investigation.

Officials with the Florida Department of Transportation said proof is your best bet. If you hit a pothole or something from one of the sites damages your car, take a picture and note the date, time and location, officials said.

Source: WESH

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