Calls for Changes to British Summer Time To Decrease Road Traffic Accidents

Posted: October 25, 2012

Posted in: Bicycle Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Road Traffic Accidents Wrongful & Accidental Death 

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has recently called for changes in the way British Summer Time operates, to give more daylight hours in the evening, when road traffic accidents are more likely to happen.

The IAM would like to see the British time zone brought forward by an hour in both winter and summer. Figures from the Department for Transport show that this could prevent about 80 deaths and at least 200 serious injuries on our roads each year.

Road casualty rates increase with the arrival of darker evenings. In 2011:

• The number of pedestrians killed or seriously injured in November was 14% more than the monthly average.
• The number of cyclist casualties was 5% higher.
• The rate of motorcycle casualties per vehicle mile was 28% higher.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said:

“We want to see a three-year trial of the new daylight system. If the trial period proves the new daylight hours have a positive effect on road safety, it is clear that it is the system we should keep. With convincing evidence of the potential benefits, it is only right that we pilot a new system.”

Latest figures on Scottish road traffic accident casualties »