Warning after collision data shows crash increase after clock change

Collision data shows there is an increase in crashes after the clocks go back by an hour in the autumn.

The figures, from the AA’s Accident Assist team, show that collisions rise by 11% in the two weeks following the change compared to the fortnight before the clocks fall back.

There were 3,680 collisions where someone was injured or killed due do the driver’s vision was affected by adverse weather or dazzling sun, according to the 2023 road casualty statistics. 

Similarly, there were 4,244 injury collisions where the road surface was slippery due to weather conditions.

Darker evenings, wet weather and slippery streets all contribute to increased collisions in late October and early November.

Even when autumn produces drier, sunnier days, drivers are struggling with low-lying sun and glare off the roads.

The AA is advising drivers to be more vigilant ahead of the clocks going back an hour on Sunday (October 27).

Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: “Our stats are clear that when the clocks fall back, we see a rise in the number of crashes. Many of these could be avoided by making small changes to driving habits.

“Dazzle by low-lying sun can make a journey challenging, but being in control of your lights is easy. Leaving the stalk on ‘auto’ is not always the best way forward. We urge drivers to help light the way to help them see others and help other see you.”

In an AA online poll, conducted last month (September), three-quarters (73%) of drivers said the worst thing about driving in autumn was being dazzled by the sun.

Meanwhile, more than half (52%) said other drivers not using their lights properly is a problem in autumn, while two fifths (40%) said darker mornings and evenings were the worst aspect of autumnal motoring.

AA Accident Assist says drivers should carry out some basic vehicle checks such as checking tyres and lights, as well as ensuring they carry sunglasses throughout the season to combat low and dazzling sun.

Rankin said: “Arguably, driving in autumn is the most testing as the weather can change from cold and wet, to bright and sunny. The best advice is to drive to the conditions, ensure your car is in good condition and to look out for other road users.”

In separate research, dashcam company Nextbase has also revealed a surge in crashes when the clocks change.

Analysis of road safety data from the last five years shows that in the week after the clocks change, crashes between 5pm and 5.59pm spike 55%, from an average of 128 to an average of 198.

If 2020 is excluded due to pandemic irregularities the spike is 63%.

Road collisions in the week prior and week following the clocks changing

Source: Nextbase

Bryn Brooker, head of road safety at Nextbase, said: “When the clocks go back this Sunday drivers across the UK will suddenly start driving home in a far darker environment than they were the week before.

“Most will adjust accordingly, but this data shows there is a serious spike of crashes in that crucial 5pm hour. Luckily there are some simple safety checks you can undertake to stay safe.”

Fleet and business drivers must adopt ‘defensive driving’ techniques

To help fleet and business drivers stay safe TTC is encouraging fleet managers to help their drivers review defensive driving techniques, which can be adopted through the winter months.

Andy Wheeler, training product manager for TTC Group, said: “As the days get shorter it’s worth fleet managers recapping the simple techniques which can really make a difference in helping their fleet drivers to stay safe while night driving. 

“A higher number of traffic-related fatalities occur at night with fatigue being a significant factor in most cases. 

“Reduced visibility and inappropriate driving add to that risk, that is why we advise all drivers and riders to embrace defensive driving techniques.”

TTC says that those most at risk are fearful of driving in low light, including older motorists and young professionals with low mileage under their belt. Knowing the dangers of night driving and what to do to mitigate those risks is essential.

Wheeler added: “Defensive driving techniques can save lives. Fleets managers and businesses responsible for the safety of those driving for work who take time to review these night-time driving skills will be helping not only their own employees, but also the vulnerable road users who are at increased risk as the nights draw in.”

Defensive driving tips

Speed: It is safer to reduce your speed when driving in the dark, especially in unlit areas.  This will buy time to observe vulnerable road users and stop accordingly.  

Distance: It is harder to spot hazards at night so get into the habit of increasing the two-second time gap from the vehicle in front. Following too close reduces visibility and time and distance to stop.   Headlights could also distract or intimidate the driver in front.

Slow down: Take extra time to read the road for signs of other road users by travelling slower than normal. This also allows time for the eyes to adjust when travelling from well-lit to dark roads.

Lights: Ensure external lights are clean, in good working order and interior lighting is turned off. Be careful not to dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users by always using dipped headlights in urban areas or when approaching oncoming vehicles. Use full beam on all other roads, particularly unlit rural lanes, when the opportunity arises and you won’t dazzle other road users.

Eyes: Routinely have your sight examined. To avoid being dazzled by oncoming headlights, drivers can keep attention on the left-hand kerb. The rear-view mirror should be adjusted to reflect light away from the eyes and above all, let your eyes adjust to different lighting levels

Tiredness: Falling asleep when driving overnight accounts for 40 per cent of collisions in the UK. Prevent drowsy driving by ensuring business drivers take regular breaks every two hours.

Visibility: A dirty windscreen will increase glare from other vehicles at night and are also prone to steam up. Keep windscreens, windows and mirrors clean with a microfibre cloth, both inside and out

Stay alert: Remember other drivers may not be as cautious. Drivers should slow down more than usual at junctions and check side and rear-view mirrors regularly.