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Since 2022 there have been more crashes in the three weeks
after clock change than before
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Tips to remain safe when driving in autumn evenings
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“Traditional evening traffic jams could be nicknamed ‘crash
hour'” says MD of AA Accident Assist
Drivers are warned by AA Accident Assist to be more cautious
on the roads between 4pm and 7pm after the clocks go back this
weekend (Saturday night).
Since 2022, there has been an 11% increase in crashes during the
evening rush hour in the three weeks after the autumn clock
change, compared to the three weeks before the clocks fall back.
As well as the likelihood of inclement weather, darker evenings
may have been catching some drivers out following the end of
British Summer Time. In addition, during the day low lying sun
and its reflection off wet roads can create visibility problems
for drivers so it is worth having a pair of sunglasses to hand.
AA Accident
Assist is asking drivers to check their vehicle over
as well as allowing more space from the vehicle in front,
particularly in wet or icy conditions.
AA Accident Assist's Autumnal Advice
1. Leave more distance between you and the car
in front – create at least a four second gap
2. Ensure tyres have at least 2mm tread depth
and are pumped up correctly
3. Get brake discs and pads checked and
replaced if necessary
4. Check all bulbs are working so you can see
hazards, and others can see you
5. Look after windscreen and wiper blades –
give yourself the best chance to see everything on the road
6. Angle your mirror in the dark so that lights
from behind aren't reflected straight in your face
7. Be more cautious around schools and poorly
lit areas – always check for cyclists and pedestrians
Tim Rankin, managing director for AA Accident Assist, said;
“After the clocks go back, the traditional evening
traffic jams could be nicknamed ‘crash hour' for the weeks
following the change.
“Darker evenings seem to be catching some drivers out, which has
led to more collisions on the roads. Many of these crashes
could have been avoided by simply keeping up with vehicle checks
or by adjusting to autumn driving.
“Arguably, the best change would be to double the gap advice in
the Highway Code** and leave a four-second gap between your
car and the vehicle in front. Most incidents involve a car
running into the back of another, so allowing more time to stop
could be the difference between a near miss and an expensive
claim.”
ends
NOTES TO EDITORS
* Data from internal AA Accident Assist figures, 21 days pre and
post the 2022, 2023 and 2024 October clock change
** Highway Code Rule
126 says;
“You should
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leave enough space between you and the vehicle in
front so that you can pull up safely if it suddenly slows
down or stops. The safe rule is never to get closer than the
overall stopping distance
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allow at least a two-second gap between you and the
vehicle in front on high-speed roads and in tunnels where
visibility is reduced. he gap should be at least doubled on
wet roads and up to ten times greater on icy roads
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remember, large vehicles and motorcycles need a greater
distance to stop. If driving a large vehicle in a tunnel, you
should allow a four-second gap between you and the vehicle in
front
If you have to stop in a tunnel, leave at least a 5-metre gap
between you and the vehicle in front.”
