Autumn clock change leads to spike in accidents
Analysis of data collated over the past two decades has shown a sharp increase in collisions in the weeks after the autumn clock change.
The clocks change this weekend, bringing in darker evenings from next Monday.
This correlates directly with an increase in collisions, with Enterprise-Rent-A-Car saying that in the four weeks after last year’s autumn clock change the number of replacement vehicles it provided to customers involved in accidents rose by 5.4%.
It said this is in line with data from the last 20 years, warning that that road accidents are more likely in winter due to darker journeys and harsher weather conditions. It has now urged drivers to ensure that their insurance policies offer a replacement car.
Replacement cars
Stuart Sandell, AVP at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, said: “Access to a replacement or courtesy vehicle may be essential for many people in the weeks following an accident when they are waiting for their vehicle to be repaired, especially if it’s a particularly busy time of the year for bodyshops.
“Those with older vehicles that are more likely to be written off may also be left without a car unless there is specific provision in their policy. We advise policyholders to get advice from their insurance provider to ensure they have the right mobility for their needs.”
