Crashes in autumn spike between 4pm and 6pm
Nearly one in eight crashes in autumn occur between 4pm and 6pm, according to new police figures.
A Freedom of Information request by temporary car insurance provider Dayinsure found that 112,798 autumn collisions were reported to 26 UK police forces between 2021 and 2025.
Of those with a disclosed time-of-day breakdown, 14,002 took place between 4pm and 6pm.
Meanwhile, Monday was identified as recording the highest overall collision volumes.
Low sun and glare from oncoming headlights have been identified as two key contributing factors, with director of insurance at Dayinsure John Cooper sharing five practical tips to stay safe.
- Sunglasses: A suitable pair can help reduce the impact of low sunlight
- Clear windscreen: Dirt, smears and condensation can all make glare worse
- Slow down: The Highway Code advises drivers to slow down or stop if dazzled by sunlight or oncoming headlights
- Don’t stare: Keep your focus on the road ahead when faced with oncoming traffic
- Manage your own lights: Make sure your lights are clean and correctly adjusted.
Cooper said: “Dazzling other drivers with undipped headlights can be considered careless driving, with a fixed penalty of a £100 fine and three penalty points. In extreme cases, the courts can impose an unlimited fine, with three to nine points or an unlimited fine.”
