Motorists have been warned to stay vigilant this weekend as clocks going back could accidentally result in a fine as high as £5,000.
Nights will begin to draw in sooner throughout the day, with experts from CarMats.co.uk warning that driving habits picked up in the summer could land you in trouble. For example, forgetting to turn on your headlights when necessary could result in a serious fine and points on your licence.
To ensure you keep your licence this autumn and winter as well as stay out of trouble, CarMats provided their top five tips as clocks are set to go back in just a few days…
Don’t forget your lights
Driving in the dark without your headlights on is a serious offence, as it significantly increases the risk of an accident.
It might seem like a minor infraction, but if you’re caught, you could face a hefty fine, penalty points or even be charged with “Driving without Due Care and Attention”. Drivers could be hit with up to nine points on their licence or a fine of up to £5,000.
By making sure your headlights are on at all times during the darker months, even during the day, you’ll avoid forgetting to switch them on when the sun sets.
Keep those windows and mirrors clean
In the colder months, the sun tends to rise later, often during peak driving times. This is also when the sun’s glare can be particularly problematic for drivers.
That’s why it’s crucial to keep your windows and mirrors clean and streak-free – dirt and smudges can scatter the light, worsening the glare and reducing your visibility. 3.
Stay informed about the weather
The darker autumn evenings can bring unpredictable weather changes. Make sure to check your local news and radio stations before or during your journey to stay updated on any changes in the forecast.
This will also help you stay aware of any potential floods or road closures that could affect your journey or pose a risk.
Maintain a safe distance and steady speed
Drivers are urged to exercise extra caution when driving at night, as it’s easier to overlook crucial details such as road signs, pedestrians, or hazards. Diminished visibility and glare from oncoming headlights can also slow down reaction times.
Keeping a consistent speed and allowing additional space between your car and the one in front will provide more time to brake or respond to unforeseen circumstances in case of an emergency.
Avoid large vehicles
Drivers are advised to keep their distance from lorries, trucks and other large vehicles when driving in the dark. These hefty vehicles often have larger blind spots and reduced visibility at night, making it difficult for their drivers to spot smaller cars around them.
Their size and weight also mean they take longer to stop, so maintaining a safe distance minimises the risk of accidents.