As we approach the end of October, it’s nearly time to adjust our clocks again. Despite living in a digital age where our mobile devices automatically update, many cars do not, leaving drivers unsure of the correct time.
Adjusting your car clock when daylight saving time starts or ends is crucial for maintaining consistency and accuracy, and avoiding potential disruptions – including possible fines. However, according to Group 1 Automotive, an astonishing 11,500,000 drivers never change their car clocks, meaning they’re operating on incorrect time for at least half the year.
The study also found that for the 77% of people who do adjust their clocks, it takes an average of 1.87 weeks, approximately 13 days, to do so. Experts warn that if you don’t update your clock, you may resort to checking your phone for the accurate time.
Using a phone while driving is a criminal offence, punishable by a £200 fine and six penalty points. If you’ve been driving for less than two years, this offence can result in an immediate ban.
Even a quick glance at your watch can carry the same penalties as using a smartphone. Therefore, it’s far safer to rely on your dashboard clock, reports Devon Live.
If the time displayed is incorrect and you’re unaware, you could become confused and miss important events such as appointments or picking up your children from school.
Having the time set correctly in your car can not only provide a stress-free driving environment but also potentially enhance overall safety, particularly as the nights draw in. Incorrectly set clocks can lead to irritation and unnecessary distraction for drivers which could be a safety hazard.
Group 1 Automotive emphasised the importance of this seemingly minor detail: “Ensuring the time in your car is correct is a small but important task that can have a huge impact on the way we drive.”
They further explained, “Having the correct time shown on your car clock can contribute to better timekeeping, and a stress-free environment, and as the nights get darker, and more people drive during these hours, it’s so important to ensure full safety. Changing the time in your car should be simple, no matter the make or model.”
According to the spokesperson, updating the time is typically straightforward: “In most cases, the time can be changed via the car ‘settings’ button on the dashboard, where you can find options to access the date and time settings. If you don’t know how to do this, or can’t find this option, consult the manufacturers’ guide, nd this should provide easy to follow steps on how to do this.”
If motorists are unsure of how to update their car clocks, a consultation of the manufacturer’s manual is recommended for clear guidance.