Darker Nights and Roadworks: How to Stay Safe on Britain’s Roads This Winter

Beaumont TM
5 hours ago
2 min read

As the clocks go back, road safety becomes even more important

When the clocks go back and the darker nights arrive, visibility on the road decreases — but activity on the network continues. For road users and road workers alike, this seasonal change brings added risks.

At Beaumont Traffic Management, our priority is keeping everyone safe. We deliver safe, compliant, and well-lit traffic management systems that protect the public and our workforce, even in low-light and winter conditions.

Why darker nights affect road safety

When daylight hours reduce, the way we see and respond to hazards changes. Research shows that collision rates rise in the weeks following the clock change, mainly due to:

Reduced visibility – drivers have less time to see signage, barriers, or workforce activity.
Headlight glare – wet road surfaces and reflective barriers can cause glare and visual fatigue.
Poor weather – rain, fog, and frost further decrease reaction times and braking performance.
Commuter timing – more people are travelling in darkness during rush hour.

The combination of these factors makes it essential that roadworks are clearly signposted, well illuminated, and managed to the highest safety standards — something Beaumont Traffic Management prioritises across every project.

How Beaumont Traffic Management ensures safe roadworks in darker months

Our experienced teams implement robust, seasonally adjusted traffic management plans designed to maintain visibility, safety, and compliance during darker nights.

Focussing on:

1. Enhanced lighting and reflective signage

We use retroreflective traffic signs, cones, and barriers that meet Chapter 8 requirements, combined with temporary lighting towers positioned to illuminate worksites without distracting drivers.

2. High-visibility PPE and safety culture

Every operative wears certified high-visibility PPE with reflective taping for maximum visibility under headlights and site lighting. Our “see and be seen” policy reinforces safe working behaviour at all times.

4. Ongoing site inspections

Regular inspections ensure signage remains upright, clean, and visible. Lighting units and generators are maintained and tested to guarantee reliability through the night.

5. Collaboration with clients and local authorities

We work closely with highways agencies, civil engineering contractors, and local authorities to plan, monitor, and adapt every setup — ensuring safety remains the central focus, no matter the season.

How road users can help keep everyone safe

Safety on the road is a shared responsibility. During darker evenings, drivers can make a big difference by following simple steps:

Reduce speed near roadworks — this increases your reaction time.
Follow all temporary signs and cones — they are designed to guide you safely through works.
Avoid distractions — mobile phones and in-car systems can take your eyes off the road.
Keep headlights clean and properly aligned to maximise visibility.
Be patient — roadworks are essential to improving and maintaining safe road networks.

Even small changes in driving behaviour can help prevent accidents and protect the workers maintaining your roads.

Our commitment to year-round road safety

At Beaumont Traffic Management, our mission is to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable traffic management solutions for the UK’s infrastructure sector.We plan every site with precision, using experience, training, and technology to reduce risks — ensuring that road users, pedestrians, and our workforce remain protected 24/7.

As we move into the darker months, we encourage everyone to stay visible, stay alert, and stay safe.