Be bright, be seen, be safe on our roads as clocks go back

Be bright, be seen, be safe on our roads as clocks go back

As the evenings grow darker with the arrival of autumn, Liverpool City Council is urging all road users to exercise heightened caution. The clocks will be set back on Sunday, 25 October, which coincides with the school half-term break throughout the city. This period tends to be particularly busy, as many families and young people take advantage of the time off to join in Halloween Trick or Treating activities and later celebrate Bonfire Night.

The changing light conditions bring increased road safety risks, especially during the initial days following the clock change, catching many people unprepared. With reduced visibility, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers must all remain alert. Vulnerable road users, such as children walking to school, cyclists commuting, and joggers out for exercise, face greater danger, placing a significant onus on drivers to be vigilant and considerate in order to prevent accidents.

To support safer journeys during this time, the Council has provided specific advice tailored for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Drivers are encouraged to slow down since hazards become harder to detect in low light. They should also use dipped headlights in urban areas to avoid blinding others and exercise extra care near schools and pedestrian crossings, particularly during busy periods. Pedestrians are advised to wear bright, fluorescent clothing during daytime and reflective gear at night, with the latter being visible up to three times further than non-reflective items. Additional recommendations include walking facing traffic where possible, minimizing distractions like phones or headphones near roads, and keeping children close and away from traffic edges. Cyclists should use front and rear lights, don reflective and fluorescent clothing, ensure their bikes have adequate reflectors, and ride predictably while signaling intentions clearly.

In partnership with Merseyside Police, Merseyside Road Safety Partnership, and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, Liverpool City Council is actively promoting these crucial safety messages. An awareness event is planned outside Primark on Church Street on 29 October 2026 from 10 am to 3 pm, offering participants the chance to engage in activities and gain practical tips on road safety. Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, emphasized the shared responsibility to keep roads safe. He stated, “As the clocks go back and evenings get darker, we’re urging everyone to take extra care on our roads. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or driving, being visible is absolutely vital. With Halloween celebrations adding to the mix, it’s more important than ever to wear bright or reflective clothing and stay alert. Road safety is a shared responsibility and small actions, like using bike lights or holding a child’s hand, can make a big difference. Together we can keep our streets safe for everyone.”

Read the full article on Liverpool Express here: Read More