People are more likely to die in fatal road accidents on nights with a full moon, a new study reveals.

Researchers believe the glowing allure of the once-monthly spectacle distracts motorists for crucial seconds and may also prompt them to drive faster.

The study analysed fatal motorcycle collisions which took place over a 30-year period in the UK, United States, Canada and Australia, comparing the number occurring on the night of a full moon to nights one week before and one week after.

Published in the British Medical Journal, It found the risk of death from driving was around five per cent higher during a full moon.

The added danger was significantly higher - 27 per cent - during a supermoon, which occurs when the distance between the satellite and the Earth is about 13 per cent less than normal, making the object appear larger and brighter.

Supermoons take place roughly five times a year and the next in the UK is expected on January 1.

“A full moon is infrequent and spectacular, thereby creating a natural distraction,” the authors wrote.

“It can appear abruptly to a motorcyclist, such as when riding around buildings, through turns, past trees, and over hills.