Industry News from Yes Insurance

A report from the Local Government Association (LGA) has declared that there has been an astonishing rise in the amount of traffic signs and man holes covers being stolen in order to be sold as scrap metal.

The price for scrap metal has risen substantially recently, which is thought to have prompted the recent stealing sprees.

Concerns have arisen about the impact that these thieves are having on road safety, with 75 chevron signs (black and white arrows), no entry signs, village name plates and warning triangles being reported as missing in Powys alone, costing North Lincolnshire Councils £12,000 in recent weeks.

In addition, 385 iron drain covers have been stolen from areas in Surrey, Cambridgeshire, West Sussex, North Lincolnshire and Doncaster leading to around £80,000 having to be spent on replacements.

The thieves are attacking at night to avoid detection, but this increases the danger for motorists as they will not be able to see the holes in the road at night.

Motorists are advised to report any suspicious activity to the local council, the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111 and to make sure that they have breakdown cover in case of an accident.

© Adfero Ltd