The IAM is calling for an end of British summer time, citing research which shows that changing the system could save up to 80 lives each year on Britain’s roads.
An IAM poll of more than 2,000 motorists – conducted during last winter – found that 65% would support a double summertime system, moving the clocks forward by one hour throughout the entire year, while still putting the clocks forward in spring and back in autumn.
The IAM refers to DfT statistics which shows that there are 17% more pedestrian road casualties in November than the monthly average. This sharp increase is likely to be partly attributed to the winter clock change, says the IAM.
The IAM also highlights research which demonstrates that the number of motorcycle accidents in November is 41.8% higher than the normal monthly average and 73% higher than in February.
Simon Best, IAM chief executive, said: “Changing the current summertime system would save lives. Children especially are more likely to be out and about after school and an extra hour of daylight will make them more visible.
“We want to see a three-year trial of the new daylight system. If the trial period proves the new daylight hours to be a disadvantage, it is clear that the current system should be reinstated. However with convincing evidence of the potential benefits, it seems only right that we pilot a new system.”
For more information contact the IAM Press Office on 020 8996 9777.
Double summertime is a GREAT idea because absolutely everybody wins: there’s no point in wasting daylight at 4am when hardly anyone is up and about. Not quite so sure about winter being GMT+1 however, because that would extend darkness to 10am in many places. Maybe winter as GMT and Summer as GMT+2?
Whatever happens, the change should be symmetrical, with the clocks going forward at the equivalent point around the end of February. It used to change around the equinox (21 March) but the EU robbed us of a week of summertime.
Gerry, London
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