The AA reveals spike in collisions around clock change
New figures from The AA have revealed that the number of crashes on UK roads rise by 11% in the two weeks after the clocks go back.
Its Accident Assist team revealed that it was called out 11% more frequently in the fortnight after the clock change last year compared to the fortnight before.
It attributes this spike to darker evenings, wet weather and slippery streets, while even on cool, sunnier days drivers face a low-lying sun and glare off the roads.
In fact, 73% of drivers said the worst thing about driving in autumn was being dazzled by the sun. A further 52% said other drivers not using their lights properly is a problem in autumn, while 40% said darker mornings and evenings were the worst aspect of autumnal motoring.
Meanwhile, 2023 road casualty statistics revealed that there were 3,680 collisions where someone was injured or killed due do the driver’s vision being affected by adverse weather or dazzling sun.
The AA advice
AA Accident Assist is now reminding drivers to carry out basic checks such as type pressure and lights. The AA has also partnered with the FIA’s School Road Safety campaign to raise awareness around safer driving around schools during drop off and pick up times.
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.
“Arguably, driving in autumn is the most testing as the weather cam 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.”
This year the clocks go back on 27 October.
