Drivers told not to underestimate impact of change coming this Sunday

Millions of drivers could be at risk this weekend as the clocks go forward. On the last Sunday in March, clocks will change and this change can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm.

A nationwide study of 2,000 UK drivers by car insurance provider Dayinsure, revealed that seven in 10 admit to driving while tired, and almost half saying they feel more tired when the clocks go forward, as the mornings are darker. If you’re driving fatigued, you could be at risk of slower reaction times, impaired judgement and reduced concentration. Road safety experts say that fatigued drivers can be as dangerous as drunk driving in terms of impact on driver performance.

One 2022 study from Surrey University showed that following the clocks going forward, drivers’ behaviours are riskier, and their reaction time and ability to read situations are compromised.

Researchers from the University of Surrey and the University of Padova in Italy took 23 men and assessed their driving before and after daylight savings.

The men drove an 11.5km route on a driving simulator which included a long straight road with an unbroken centre line, behind a vehicle. Prior to the clocks changing, only 9% chose to overtake. Afterwards, 39% chose to.

Chris Bibby, CEO of Dayinsure, said: “Many drivers underestimate just how dangerous fatigue behind the wheel can be. Losing even a small amount of sleep or driving when your body clock is out of sync can significantly affect concentration, reaction times and decision making.

“The clocks changing may seem like a minor adjustment, but for drivers who are already starting work early or commuting in darker mornings, the effects can quickly add up.”

If you commute in the early morning, it’s a good idea to take extra care when the clocks change.

Chris said: “If you’re feeling overly tired, it’s always safer to delay your journey where possible, take breaks on longer drives and make sure you’re fully alert before getting behind the wheel.”