Watch out for joggers as clocks go back

BRITISH Summer Time comes to an end tonight, but life doesn’t!

For drivers, they need to be aware that the number of joggers who took advantage of the lighter nights to run along our roads will mostly still be there.

But they will be much harder to spot.

Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger, of road safety charity the Institute of Advanced Motorists offers his advice on dealing with vulnerable road users.

• Look well ahead so you see joggers, pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists early.

• Look for signs of distraction – are they wearing earphones? If so, they may be distracted by the noise.

• Give them plenty of room – especially if they are distracted.

• Be prepared for them to make unexpected changes of direction without looking first (expect the unexpected!)

• Remember they may not hear you (their music may be too loud) so sounding a horn is not necessarily going to alert them to your presence.

• In country roads remember there may be runners just round any bend – so drive in a way that allows you to deal with that safely and considerately.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger said: “With good weather and longer days, we often find that more people are out and about on the roads. Make sure you give those enjoying the outdoors extra space and consideration.”