# Autumn road safety and visibility risks

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/autumn-road-safety-and-visibility-risks
> Updated: 2026-10-27T18:12:46.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

During the autumn months, experts have highlighted increasing hazards for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists due to changing light conditions. Initial warnings focused on the dangers of low-angle sunlight, which can restrict visibility and make it difficult to detect road markings, signals, and other road users, particularly when exiting tunnels or driving on wet surfaces.

Following the transition to winter time in Hungary, these risks have intensified as darkness occurs earlier during peak commuting hours. Research indicates that a majority of drivers have experienced situations where they noticed other road users too late due to twilight or darkness. While spring clock changes are often linked to sleep deprivation, autumn transitions are associated with a rise in high-speed collisions and an expected increase in accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: Hungary: Increased traffic accident risks following autumn clock change

Following the autumn clock change in Hungary, experts warn of rising traffic accident risks as earlier darkness complicates visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists during peak hours.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hungary-increased-traffic-accident-risks-following-autumn-clock-change

### 2026-10-05: ÖAMTC warns of increased driving risks from low autumn sun

ÖAMTC warns that low autumn sunlight increases driving risks by causing glare that obscures pedestrians, signals, and other vehicles, especially during morning and evening commutes.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/amtc-warns-of-increased-driving-risks-from-low-autumn-sun

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Cite as: Autumn road safety and visibility risks. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/autumn-road-safety-and-visibility-risks