Accidents will happen - particularly in October

Motorists adjusting to darker days with the clocks going back and the onset of winter all add up to make October the worst month for car claims, Virgin Money Car Insurance figures show.

Claims are 25% higher than the average, its figures show, with 10.4% of all claims happening in October. The most dangerous day of October is the 20th.

Most car claims occur in the final three months of the year, accounting for 30% of all claims as the changing weather conditions and earlier darkness all affect driving conditions.

Grant Bather, spokesman at Virgin Money, said: "Traditionally Christmas time has been seen as the most dangerous time for drivers but our research shows that Autumn into Winter is treacherous for motorists.

"With the seasons changing, nights drawing in and driving conditions becoming hazardous, motorists should pay extra attention when driving and should make sure that they are equipped should they have an accident or breakdown."

Car owners should make sure that they regularly check fluid levels, including brake fluid, oil levels, coolant and screen wash. Drivers should also make any repairs needed to the car as soon as possible, to stop the damage becoming worse. Fitting your car with a wheel lock or car alarm are both great ways of deterring car thieves, while parking your vehicle in a well lit space, or in a garage will also help to minimise the threat of the car being broken into or stolen.