As the clocks roll back for Daylight Saving Time, we gain an extra hour of sleep, but this time change also brings hidden dangers to the road. The shift to Standard Time results in darker evenings and can also lead to increased risks of car accidents. Studies have shown that the disruption to our internal clocks and the reduction in daylight can make the roads more dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike.
In this post, we’ll explore how the fall time change can affect your safety on the road, why accidents tend to spike during this period, and how you can stay safe behind the wheel.
1. The Impact of Reduced Daylight
The most obvious effect of switching back to Standard Time is the earlier sunset, leaving drivers navigating evening commutes in darker conditions. Reduced visibility increases the likelihood of accidents, especially for pedestrians and cyclists who are harder to see in low light.
Diminished visibility: As the days get shorter, dusk arrives earlier, often overlapping with rush hour traffic. This makes it harder for drivers to spot road hazards, other vehicles, and pedestrians.
Glare from headlights: The glare from oncoming headlights can be more blinding during twilight and nighttime, affecting a driver’s depth perception and reaction time.
Pedestrian accidents: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports a sharp rise in pedestrian accidents during the fall and winter months when more people are walking or running in the dark.
2. Drowsy Driving: A Hidden Danger
The switch to Standard Time also disrupts our circadian rhythm, which controls our sleep-wake cycle. Even gaining an extra hour of sleep can throw off your internal clock, leading to fatigue and drowsy driving.
Fatigue impacts reaction times: Sleep experts point out that even small disruptions to your sleep schedule can lead to drowsiness, which reduces alertness and reaction times behind the wheel.
Drowsy driving statistics: According to the National Safety Council, driving while drowsy contributes to about 100,000 crashes annually in the U.S., and the fall time change plays a role in this spike.
3. How to Stay Safe on the Road After the Time Change
While the risks may increase after the fall time change, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and others on the road:
Adjust your routine: Give yourself extra time to adjust to the new daylight patterns. Try going to bed slightly earlier in the days leading up to the time change to help reset your internal clock.
Increase your awareness: With darker conditions earlier in the day, make a conscious effort to drive more carefully. Be extra mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles, especially during dawn and dusk.
Check your headlights: Make sure your vehicle’s headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly. Clean your windshield to reduce glare and ensure maximum visibility.
Limit distractions: Whether it's adjusting the radio or checking your phone, distractions can be even more dangerous in low-light conditions. Keep your full attention on the road to reduce the risk of accidents.
Avoid driving if you’re tired: If you feel drowsy or fatigued, pull over and rest. Driving while tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.
The shift back to Standard Time may seem like a minor adjustment, but the increase in darkness and disruption to your sleep cycle can make driving more dangerous. By taking extra precautions—like staying alert, ensuring your vehicle’s lights are working, and adjusting your routine—you can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident this fall.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by drowsy driving or reduced visibility, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Shay + Associates to explore your legal options and get the support you need.
Stay safe, stay alert, and drive carefully this fall!