Safe driving when the clocks go back

1st November 2012

When the clocks go back, it can take a while for motorist to adapt.  The Institute of Advanced Motorist’s chief examiner Peter Rodger has put together some tips for driving in the dark. 

• To improve your view as far as possible, keep your lights and windscreen clean.
• Use main beam, but when other drivers are approaching make sure you dip your lights to avoid dazzling the oncoming traffic.
• Make sure you can stop safely within the distance you can see to be clear.
• If you’re feeling tired, caffeine alone is not a fix.  Take a break and have a 20-minute nap.
• If an approaching vehicle forgets to dip its lights, look beyond the lights, but to their left to avoid being dazzled as much.
• Look at how the traffic ahead behaves for clues to possible problems you can't see yet.
• If it’s gloomy in the morning, don't forget to put your lights on.

“The risk of fatal accidents increases in the dark as visibility is reduced,” Peter Rodger said.  “Have regular eye examinations to ensure you are wearing glasses or contact lenses if you need to.”

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a winter driving campaign with a dedicated website, drivingadvice.org.uk, for traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on safe driving in winter