Day lights cut crashes

30th January 2007

That's the experts' shock view after an investigation discovered motorists simply don't notice other road users.

The report, by the Dutch Institute for Road Safety Research, found cars using daytime running lights (DRL) instantly became more visible. In tests, drivers estimated vehicles with their lamps on to be closer than they were, resulting in less risky manoeuvres.

While DRL is not a UK requirement, electrical expert Hella says it's producing a retro-fit kit. Using LED lights, such as those on the new Audi R8, the lamps automatically illuminate when the ignition is switched on. The bulbs draw only a 10th of the current of standard units, meaning lower fuel consumption and emissions.