The clocks spring forward this Sunday, meaning lighter evenings and warmer days ahead, but a potential £5000 fine might sully that.
While lighter evenings are welcomed by many, the loss of an hour’s sleep, combined with changing light conditions, can catch drivers off guard.
It is especially possible during those early morning commutes.
So, with that in mind, you might want to pay attention.
The 5 key risks to drivers when the clocks change
1. Sleep disruption can slow reactions
Losing an hour of sleep may not seem significant, but feeling fatigued can affect concentration and slow reaction times behind the wheel.
Lee Morley, AA Patrol of the Year, explains: “Even mild fatigue can reduce concentration and reaction times, particularly during early morning commutes when traffic is at its busiest.
“In fact, Rule 91 of the Highway Code, which relates to fitness to drive, specifically warns against driving when tired and suggests a break of at least 15 minutes every two hours.
“To reduce tiredness, motorists should try to go to bed an hour earlier on the Sunday night and take extra care in the days following the clock change, allowing plenty of time for journeys and journey breaks for the longer commutes.”
2. Adjusting your car clock on the move can put you in danger
Many vehicles do not update the dashboard clocks automatically when the time changes.
However, drivers should not attempt to adjust their car clock while driving, as doing so can be distracting and potentially dangerous.
This could result in a fine of up to £5,000 for severe cases.
Lees suggests: “Motorists should only make adjustments once the vehicle is parked safely. Or set yourself a reminder before you leave the house to reset it before you need to leave.”
3. Checking the time on your phone could cost you
As most mobile phones can auto-update to the time change, quickly checking your handset whilst driving for a time check may be tempting.
However, briefly picking up a phone to check the time still counts as illegal handheld use, which can result in a £200 fine and six penalty points on a driving licence.
Lee adds: “This law still applies to you if you’re stopped at traffic lights, queuing in traffic or if you have an automatic stop-start and the engine’s cut out briefly, so do not use the mobile for any reason at all when the car is in use.”
4. Rushing because you feel rushed
We’ve all been there – forgot the clocks jumped forward, slept in and now running late.
Rather than try and make up the time by speeding, it’s better to accept what’s happened, tell the people you’re meeting you’re going to get there a little later and drive sensibly.
Lee said:“Rushing, speeding or driving aggressively to make up time can put everyone on the road at real risk.
“If you’re running late, the safest option is simply to accept the delay and continue driving carefully. Or, find somewhere to park and call someone at your destination to let them know you’ll be arriving later, if it will help put your mind at rest.”
5. Sun glare danger increases
The daylight shift also means more motorists could face low sun and glare during peak commuting times, which can significantly reduce visibility, making it difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, traffic lights or hazards ahead.
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Motorcyclists are also particularly vulnerable when they are approaching with the sun behind them.
“Wearing sunglasses can help to reduce glare, but drivers must ensure their eyewear is suitable for driving and not too dark.
Lee adds: “Although poor sunglasses choice is not a fineable offence, do choose lenses that allow sufficient light transmission and remove them when conditions darken, such as when entering tunnels or driving in poor weather to follow Highway Code Rule 97.”
“Drivers should also make sure their windscreens are clean inside and out. Even a thin film of dirt can make glare far worse when the sun is low.”
What’s your favourite part of the clocks going forward? Let us know in the comments
