SHORT days and bad weather can affect the mood and safety of the south-west's 955,000 drivers.

Winter Drivers' Disorder (WDD) has been identified in a new study by Privilege Insurance which is believed to cause thousands of accident in the region.

Drivers suffering from the condition reported experiencing overtiredness and short temperedness.

Once behind the wheel these symptoms transform into anger or irritation with other road users, slower reaction times and recklessness on the roads.

Possible causes of WDD include short daylight hours, poor weather conditions and bad roads.