Drivers across the UK are being urged to be extra vigilant ahead of October 25, when the clocks go back and evening commutes become darker. Motoring specialists warn that reduced daylight and adverse weather will make roads more hazardous.
Clocks go back on October 25
On Sunday, October 25, the UK switches from British Summer Time (BST) to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), with the sun setting around 4.50pm. This means many commuters will drive home in darkness, which narrows the field of vision, slows reaction times, and makes it harder for eyes to cope with contrast and glare.
James Harding, a motoring specialist with 16 years of experience at Blackcircles.com, warned: "Unlit roads can be more dangerous, especially to cars with less powerful headlights. Reduced visibility often means that sharp bends, debris and standing water can appear much later than they usually would."
He added: "You may also not notice loose gravel, mud, potholes or broken edges until you are close. Before you set off, you must also check that your tyres have the correct pressure and adequate tread. Having a good grip is especially important when you are unable to see road surfaces."
Accident risk rises after clock change
Car experts say the clock change shifts daylight hours, causing a sharp spike in road accidents and evening driving risks. Peak evening rush hours are suddenly plunged into darkness, leading to a documented increase in traffic accidents and injury claims of 11% to over 20% in the following weeks.
Vehicle collisions rise by about 11% in the fortnight following the autumn clock change, according to the AA. Data from Zurich Insurance shows that accidents between 4pm and 7pm jump from 25% to 30% after the shift.
Drivers face reduced visibility, a low-lying autumn sun that can cause severe glare, and poorer weather such as rain, fog, and slippery fallen leaves. These hazards make vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders, much harder to spot, creating a particularly dangerous environment for young, new, or business fleet drivers, who are statistically at a higher risk of crashing during this seasonal shift.
How to drive safely in the dark
- Look well ahead, not just directly in front of the car. Scan for bends, pedestrians, cyclists, animals, road debris and changes in the road surface.
- Expect potholes and road-edge hazards. If you can't clearly see the road surface, reduce speed rather than suddenly swerving at the last moment. If you see a pothole, brake before it if you have enough distance, rather than braking hard while you're already going over it. Keep the steering controlled and don't make a dangerous last-second swerve.
- Leave more space. A larger following distance gives you additional time to react if the vehicle ahead brakes or encounters something.
- Be particularly careful on bends. You may not be able to see an approaching vehicle, cyclist, pedestrian or obstruction around the corner. Slow down before reaching any bends in the road.
- Slow down when visibility is limited. It is important to drive slowly, at a speed where you can safely stop if you notice hazards in the road.
- Use headlights correctly. On an unlit road, use full beam when appropriate, but dip it for oncoming traffic and when following another vehicle to avoid dazzling the driver.
- Watch for pedestrians and cyclists. Pedestrians and cyclists can be surprisingly difficult to see on dark roads, particularly if they're wearing dark clothing. Be sure to keep an eye out for anyone walking or cycling, and give them plenty of passing space.
James continued: "If you've recently driven down a particularly rough, dark road and notice vibrations, a steering pull, or loss of tyre pressure, it is important to check your tyres promptly."
