Experts Warn of Increased Risk of Crashes as Clocks Change
Experts are cautioning drivers to be extra vigilant behind the wheel as the clocks prepare to turn back this weekend on Sunday, October 17th. Recent data reveals a significant spike in crashes during autumn months when the clocks go back, compared to the summer period. The AA has reported an 11% increase in accidents through its national Accident Assist service in the fortnight following the October 2023 time change. The combination of darker evenings, along with wet and icy conditions, heightens the likelihood of road accidents.
The Great Britain Road Casualty Statistics for 2022 indicated that slippery roads contributed to over 4,000 collisions, with 50 of them proving fatal. The transition from British Summer Time, marked by clocks moving forward an hour on the last Sunday in March, to Greenwich Mean Time, when the clocks move back an hour every last Sunday of October, plays a key role in these seasonal fluctuations. Even after the inclement autumn weather subsides, the low-lying sun and its reflection off damp roads can create visibility challenges for drivers.
To ensure road safety during this period, AA Accident Assist has shared seven tips for drivers:
1. Conduct pre-winter car maintenance checks, including tyre treads and using anti-freeze screen wash.
2. Confirm all lights are functioning correctly and use headlights responsibly to avoid glare.
3. Allocate extra time for journeys.
4. Adjust mirrors in low light to prevent reflection creating visibility issues.
5. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and extend braking distances.
6. Adjust driving speed as driving too fast escalates accident risks.
7. Exercise caution near schools and poorly lit areas, prioritising checks for cyclists and pedestrians.
Tim Rankin, the managing director of AA Accident Assist, emphasised the importance of adapting driving habits during the clock change period to avert accidents. Rankin highlighted that simple adjustments like reducing speed and increasing following distances can significantly contribute to road safety. Additionally, allowing more time for journeys to clear windscreens thoroughly and driving in accordance with the prevailing conditions are crucial steps to preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.
As we approach the upcoming clock change, drivers are urged to adhere to these safety recommendations and adopt a heightened sense of awareness on the roads. By implementing these precautions, motorists can contribute to reducing the incidence of accidents during this critical time of seasonal transition.