Driving safely once the clocks have gone back

It is that time of year again when we seem to have the annual debate of whether the clocks should go back or remain in ‘summer time.’ Fact of the matter is, even if the clocks were not to go back, the evenings and mornings will still be darker anyway – there just isn’t enough daylight at this time of year, irrespective of a clock change. In our latest blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how we can all make the roads safer once we have gone back into GMT.

The clocks will be going back this autumn, that is fact. Fact and statistics also show that once this does happen, accidents increase, and the roads become a more dangerous place. Everyone has an important part to play in ensuring this does not happen. Perhaps for couriers or same day delivery drivers this is extra important, as it is these people who spend a greater amount of time on the roads. However, these tips and considerations below will be useful to everyone, so please do read on.

Know the risks

They say that knowledge is power and this is definitely the case when it comes to this topic. Many people simply aren’t aware that the roads become a more hazardous place once the evenings and mornings become darker. Even just something as simple as recognising this is enough to make someone stop and think, and ponder whether they need to alter their driving style, pattern or behaviour. All our drivers are educated on the risks of winter.

Awareness of others

Once the clocks go back, it is more important to be more aware of other road users around us. This is primarily because when darker, they can be harder to see. Cyclists, pedestrians (especially children,) and motorbikes are things to look out for. As strange as it seems, the dark can disorientate things very quickly, and it can even make seeing other cars or big lorries more of a challenge. Rock Solid Deliveries only work with the most experienced and safety conscious drivers.

Be prepared for rush hour in the dark

Our brains are wired to associate darkness with bedtime. When it doesn’t get light until 8am and it is dark at 4pm, it isn’t possible to be tucked up at home (even though that does sound very cosey on an autumn or winters night!) It just so happens that in winter and based on these timings, darkness descends just as traffic increases associated with peak times and rush hours. All drivers need to be extra aware and extra careful with this. Whilst it happens every year and it is nothing new, more traffic means more potential danger. Darkness just adds a potential spanner into this mix to make it even more complicated. Courier drivers are still working before it gets light and often long after evening dark, so this is relevant in our industry.

Ensure you have a sound vehicle

One of the best things that a driver can do for the darker nights is to ensure their vehicle is full serviced and prepared for the cold months ahead. As a company and especially at this time of year, checking our fleet of vehicles is extra important to ensure we can still do our job, but also to the best safety standards.

The above are some simple tips and things we can all do to make our roads safer this autumn and winter season. As a courier company, we know how important safe roads are, and we will do anything we can to educate and promote this.

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