27 March 2025
As British Summer Time begins, The AA is reminding drivers of the dangers of driving whilst tired.
Most of us will be celebrating the lighter mornings and evenings, but as the clocks spring forward, we lose an hour’s sleep as BST (British Summer Time) is implemented in the early hours of Sunday 30 March. During this change, it is not only our vehicles which should be checked prior to travelling – we should also make sure that we are fit to drive.
“Tired drivers pose serious risks to themselves and others - don’t become one of the statistics.”
Winding down the window or turning the radio up are not effective at combatting tiredness. If you find yourself doing these things, it can be a sign you are sleepy and need a break from driving. The AA recommends taking a short break every two hours on a long journey to refresh yourself. There is lots of advice on how to avoid driving whilst tired on The AA’s website.
According to the Great Britain Road Casualty Statistics for 2023*, there were 1,326 collisions attributed to the driver being too tired to drive or ride safely, of which 43 were fatal.
Whilst there isn't a specific offence of driving when tired, doing so significantly increases the chance of you committing other offences or causing a collision. The penalty for causing death by dangerous driving is up to 14 years imprisonment.
With the increased daylight hours there comes an increased risk of sun glare in the early morning and late afternoon around an hour before the sun rises and sets. In 2023, sunlight dazzling drivers resulted in 2,430 collisions, with 38 fatalities.
Tony Rich, AA head of road safety, said: “Tired drivers pose serious risks to themselves and others - don’t become one of the statistics.
“Checking your vehicle over is only one part of the pre-journey preparations. Drivers should also make sure they feel ok to drive, especially as we lose an hour’s sleep this weekend.
“Drivers need to be alert at all times - if you start to feel tired whilst driving, stop in a safe place and take a break. Drink two cups of coffee or an equivalent caffeinated drink or take a short nap of around 15-20 minutes.”
*Reported road casualties Great Britain, annual report: 2023 - GOV.UK