SAFETY FIRST
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Road safety groups and charities have mixed views about the changes. Brake spokesperson Katie Shephard says: “It is crucial that drivers are able to see the road, and other vehicles, and switching off motorway lights will lead to drivers’ vision being impaired, which may lead to an increased number of crashes.” Caroline Starrs, research analyst at The Road Safety Foundation, says there is inconclusive proof about whether accidents increase or decrease if lights are switched off. However, she adds: “There is some evidence to suggest that when lights are switched on, driver comfort is increased and therefore they increase their speed.” Jo Bullock, spokesperson for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents says that each motorway has to be assessed on an individual basis. “It is vital there is a trial period when the effects are closely monitored to see if there is any negative impact on safety,” she says.