Industry News from Yes Insurance

Illegal roadside advertisements are distracting drivers and can lead to more claims being made to car insurance providers.

The government has now announced plans to crackdown on the illegal adverts which are risking the lives of many motorists.

Housing and planning minister Yvette Cooper is urging local councils to take a tough stance on unauthorised adverts by improving enforcement and creating a database of repeat offenders.

"Too many of our motorways are now strewn with illegal trailer adverts, which cause hazards for drivers and are unsightly too," said Ms Cooper.

"Just because the ads are parked on trailers doesn't mean they should be able to dodge proper planning and safety rules. 23 per cent of drivers say they have been so distracted by roadside distractions, such as ads, that they have swerved out of lane.

"That's why applications need to go through the proper planning system so they can be appropriately assessed," she added.

The database, which is due to be launched later this year, will be used as a resource for authorities when building a prosecution case.

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