Amex advises drivers to “MOT themselves”

Drivers have been advised by American Express to undertake an MOT test on themselves before setting out on any journeys after the clocks go back this weekend.

According to government figures, over 742 people are injured and eight people die on British roads every day.

Drivers, rather than mechanical failure, are believed to be responsible in 95 per cent of these cases, emphasising the importance of drivers’ fitness to be on the road.

Joanne Field, marketing manager for American Express Insurance Services, points out that the shorter days and longer evenings that arrive as we approach winter increase potential hazards for drivers.

"Industry research has shown that whilst 75 per cent of all driving takes place in daylight hours, more than 50 per cent of all fatal accidents occur during the hours of darkness," Ms Field said. "The clock change triggers us into driving in the dark."

The insurance provider offers a guide to motorists who want to ensure they are fully prepared to drive.

It urges drivers to ask themselves if they are fully rested or if they have taken any medication that could make them drowsy, how necessary their journey is and to consider the weather before taking to the road.