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crashes rise a quarter when clocks go back

Accident rates increase by a quarter once the clocks go back

  • Crashes rise by 23% in autumn months compared to summer months
  • Slippery roads due to weather contributed to more than 4,000 collisions last year
  • “When the clocks go back and the evenings draw in, crashes are more likely to happen” says AA Accident Assist MD

27 October 2023

AA Accident Assist is warning drivers to be more vigilant behind the wheel from Sunday (29 October 2023) as crash levels rise by a quarter (23%*) once the clocks go back compared to the summer months.

The combination of darker evenings, coupled with wet and icy conditions means crashes are more likely to happen. Even when typical autumn weather subsides, low lying sun and its reflection off wet roads can create visibility problems for drivers.

According to the Great Britain Road Casualty Statistics for 2022**, shows that the road being slippery due to the weather contributed towards 4,244 collisions, of which 50 were fatal. Sunlight dazzling drivers resulted in 2,430 collisions, with 38 fatalities.

“In many cases crashes can be avoided completely simply by adjusting some driving habits.”
Tim Rankin, managing director for AA Accident Assist

With the clocks going back an hour in the early hours of Sunday morning, AA Accident Assist is giving seven tips to drivers to help them, and other road users stay safe; 

  • Get your pre-winter car maintenance sorted – check tyre treads and use screen wash with anti-freeze.
  • Make sure all your lights are working properly and use headlights responsibly to avoid causing glare.
  • Allow a bit of extra time for your journey.
  • Angle your mirror in the dark so that lights from behind aren’t reflected straight in your face.
  • Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and extend your braking distances.
  • Adjust your speed as driving too fast increases the risk of accidents.
  • Be more cautious around schools and poorly lit areas – always check for cyclists and pedestrians.

Tim Rankin, managing director for AA Accident Assist, said; “When the clocks go back and the evenings draw in, crashes are more likely to happen. Whether sunshine or rain, the change in seasons can play a role in the number of collisions.

“In many cases crashes can be avoided completely simply by adjusting some driving habits. Slowing down and allowing more space between yourself and the vehicle in front can make all the difference.

“Allowing more time for your journey to clear windscreens completely and driving to the conditions is key, while being more aware of other road users can help keep everyone safe on the road.”

* Based on total accidents reported by AA members to Accident Assist during October 2022 to December 2023, compared to the previous months of July to September 2022.

** Table RAS0701 Reported road collisions, vehicles and casualties tables for Great Britain - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Accident Assist and Recovery | Road Accident Assistance | AA (theaa.com)