The RAC Foundation is urging motorists to make the most of the extra hour of daylight this weekend by giving their cars a safety 'spring clean.' The Foundation's analysis of Government figures shows 1.4 million motorists could be risking a fine or accident for having defective lights, just over one million for dangerous brakes and nearly 700,000 for worn tyres. Studies have also shown that concentration is affected by the beginning and end of British Summer Time. These transition days are particularly difficult for teenagers, already over-represented in accident statistics. All these factors create a greater risk of a tired driver taking to the road in an unsafe car.

The RAC Foundation is urging Britain's drivers to take a few minutes this weekend to do a 'spring clean' and check that lights, brakes and windscreens are clean and fully operational. Common complaints about lights include: Vehicles with headlights or sidelights not working Badly adjusted headlights that dazzle oncoming drivers Rear fog lamps switched on in good weather, again dazzling following drivers Cyclists riding after dark without lights, especially in urban or built-up areas.

"This weekend's extra hour of evening daylight is an ideal opportunity to do those crucial tasks you have been putting off all winter," Sheila Rainger, acting director of the RAC Foundation, said. "Faulty lights, bad brakes and worn tyres mean a reduction in the ability to see, react to and avoid an accident. There is no excuse for not keeping your car roadworthy. Drivers need to see the light: don't wait until the MOT test is due to make sure you car is safe."