Latest data from the AA Accident Assist team in the UK shows that in the two weeks following the autumn clock change, collision rates rise by 11%. 

The darker evenings are a major contributory factor, as are adverse weather and slippery streets due to leaf fall. Drivers can also struggle with visibility due to glare from the sun, especially when rising and setting on clearer days.  

Appealing to drivers to be more vigilant over the coming weeks, Tim Rankin, MD of AA Accident Assist, commented, “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.”

Tim also says drivers should check their cars ahead of the more challenging conditions to come. Checking tyres and lights is highly advisable, as is carrying sunglasses. Other basic checks include ensuring the windscreen is clean, both inside and outside. 

In Ireland, drivers this autumn also need to be especially aware of the growing use of e-bikes and scooters. These are often moving much faster than normal bikes and the riders are often hard to see as they have no lights and dark clothes.   

An Garda Síochána figures for the first six months of the year show that scooter collisions were 41% up from 123 to 174, with an alarming 117% rise in death or serious injury as a result, from 18 to 39. With e-scooter use rising fast and many riders very inexperienced, this will be of special concern over the darker evenings.