Motorists are being urged to take extra care in the days after the clocks go forward, after official data analysis revealed a rise in night-time collisions in the week following the March time change.
Analysis of Department for Transport (DfT) figures by DrivingExperience.com found that, across four recent years, overall collisions fell by 2.4% in the week after the clocks changed. But collisions taking place at night – between 7pm and 6am – rose by 10% compared with the week before.
The analysis looked at matched Sunday-to-Saturday windows around the clock change – the seven days before and the seven days after, including the changeover Sunday – using pooled data from 2021 to 2024 to smooth year-to-year volatility.
While overall collision numbers did not increase, the figures suggest the March clock change may alter when risk is greatest, with incidents shifting more heavily into night-time hours.
Imran Malek, spokesperson at DrivingExperience.com, said: “Many drivers welcome the clocks going forward, with longer evenings and the sense that spring has arrived. But the change can also bring added risks, particularly in the days immediately afterwards.
“Our analysis of official figures shows a clear increase in night-time collisions in the week after the March clock change, so motorists should take extra care when driving during this period.”
Imran is advising motorists to follow a few simple steps to stay safer when driving in the dark:
- Keep windows clean – being able to see clearly is key to reducing glare, so drivers should also remember to top up washer fluid and check wiper blades.
- Use lights correctly – make sure all lights, front and rear, are working properly. Use full beam headlights on unlit roads, but dip them immediately for oncoming traffic or when following another vehicle. In built-up or well-lit areas, use dipped headlights.
- Beware of oncoming lights – drivers can be dazzled by approaching headlights, so it can help to look towards the left-hand side of the road to maintain a safe position in the lane.
- Reduce speed and increase stopping distances – darkness can make hazards harder to spot, so drive at a safe speed for the conditions and leave a greater distance from the vehicle in front.
- Don’t drive tired – maintain alertness behind the wheel by taking regular breaks where it is safe to do so, and avoid driving if you feel too tired to continue safely.
Imran added: “Driving at night can present extra challenges, but a few simple precautions can make a real difference. Clear visibility, proper use of lights, lower speeds and staying alert all help motorists stay safe.”
For more information about DrivingExperience.com, including its Young Driver Training and Skid Pan experiences, both designed to give practical driving skills, visit www.drivingexperience.com.