30th October dubbed Blackout Monday

October 30th has been dubbed ‘Black Out Monday’ by Halfords, with millions of motorists returning to commuting home in the dark after the clocks have been turned back. The darker nights, combined with defective car bulbs, mean motorists face poorer visibility on the roads.

Research by Halfords has found that 17% of motorists weren’t certain that all the lights on their car were working, while 41% were worried about being seen by other drivers or had already experienced difficulty reading road signs. The investigation also found that 89% of motorists would continue to drive with a blown bulb for up to two weeks. 

Laura Walsh, Halfords’ car bulb expert says: “At this time of year, poor visibility is common on the roads and, with the clocks going back, it’s even more crucial that drivers are extra vigilant and do their best to see and be seen. Poor lighting and defective car bulbs can make judging gaps and overtaking a real hazard, and also makes you a lot less visible to other road users. Broken brake lights also gives drivers behind less time to react.”

Halfords has launched a new headlight bulb which gives 150% more light than a standard bulb on the road, giving motorists excellent visibility in the hours of darkness. The improved performance is achieved through Xenon gas and micro filament technology and helps drivers see further, react faster and drive more safely. In addition, the beam reach on this bulb is a huge 190 metres – that’s 80 metres more than a standard bulb. Halfords is also currently offering two-for-one on selected headlight bulbs until March.

It is always best to plan ahead and be prepared, so Halfords recommends motorists undertake the following checks as a precaution:

• Check all lights at least once a fortnight
• Don’t forget fog lights, full-beam headlights and indicators
• Carry a spare bulb set in your glovebox
• Keep your lights clean for clear vision and visibility
• Check rear lights by asking someone to help you
• You can have your bulbs fitted whilst you wait, at your local Halfords

For drivers seeking extra piece of mind, Halfords is offering free six-point winter checks – comprising of head/tail light bulbs, car batteries, wiper blades, oil levels, checks for windscreen chips and a free screenwash top-up throughout the season at over 468 sites across the UK. There's no need to book, just turn up. To find your nearest store visit www.halfords.com.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact Halfords@z-pr.com or 020 7896 3404

For more information visit www.halfords.com or www.halfordscompany.com