1968 saw the launch of a three year experiment where the clocks were no longer put back an hour when winter came in. The trial was to see the effect of keeping the summer time during winter on vehicle accident injuries. The test saw a reduction of 11% in serious and fatal injuries across England and Wales with a 17% reduction in Scotland.
Naturally, the number of casualties in the mornings increased with no backward clocking to alleviate the winter darkness coming in, but that number was outweighed by the drop in casualties in the evenings which were now lighter for longer during the winter months.
The test was thought to have been tainted, though, as breath tests and new speed limits were introduced during that time. Yes Insurance have come forward with their claim data which indicates that the original findings, although not perfect, may have indicated the correct course.
The insurer’s research indicates that around 100 deaths and 800 serious injuries could be avoided each year if the clocks were to remain on UK summer time all year round. They called for a new experiment to be trialled with the possibility of putting clocks forward in winter.
Although it seems a little harsh to think of accidents and injuries in averages and statistics, if the overall numbers can be affected positively then surely it should be welcomed. The fact that it will turn the tables and people who would not have been involved in an accident if the status quo remained will now be in more danger is something we will apparently have to accept.
Specialist Cover Providers
