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Motor insurance: Councils urged to 'keep the lights on'

08 Sep 2010

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist has called on the UK's local authorities not to switch off street lighting at night, citing the risks such a move could pose to motor insurance customers.

The firm's appeal comes in response to the news that several councils are running trials to turn off or dim street lights post-midnight in a bid to save money and their impact on the environment.

David Williams MBE, chief executive of the organisation, said that street lights are a necessity on British roads, adding that – with winter approaching – it is fast becoming more important that visibility is aided, not reduced.

"Poor weather, decreased visibility and bad road conditions during winter not only increase the risk of accidents but also contribute to a rise in breakdown situations," he warned.

In addition, unlit roads could potentially lead to a rise in the number of motor insurance claims as the likelihood of drivers having accidents may increase.

Posted by Judith Stevenson