Falling Back: How the End of Daylight Saving Time Affects Your Driving

By Eugene Bruno on October 31, 2023

Daylight Saving Time means setting our clocks forward by one hour in the Spring and turning them back in the Fall. For many of us, this can disrupt our internal body clock, also known as circadian rhythm. Our bodies need time to adapt to these shifts, which can lead to sleep disturbances and an increased risk of crashes. As we approach the end of Daylight Saving Time and prepare to set our clocks back on November 5, it’s important to raise awareness about the increase in car crashes as we adjust to the dark.

How Does the End of DST Affect Drivers?

Numerous studies have shown a correlation between the end of Daylight Saving Time in the Fall and an increase in car accidents. Several factors contribute to this relationship:

Sleep Deprivation: Although we gain an hour of sleep, the time change causes sleep disturbance that can result in sleep-deprived drivers. Fatigue impairs one’s ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound decisions, making it a significant risk factor for car crashes.

Reduced Visibility: The time shift also affects visibility, especially during the evening commute hours. Drivers will find themselves commuting in darker conditions, making it more challenging to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles on the road.

Disrupted Circadian Rhythms: Our biological clocks regulate when we feel most alert and awake. When DST ends, our internal clocks may still be synchronized with the previous time, leading to drowsiness and a higher likelihood of accidents.

Tips for Staying Safe After Daylight Saving Time

Plan Ahead: In the days leading up to the time change, gradually adjust your sleep schedule to get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Allow Extra Time: On the Monday after the end of DST, give yourself some extra time to reach your destination safely, as many other drivers may be sleep-deprived as well.

Watch for Pedestrians: Be extra vigilant when driving during the darker hours. Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists who may not be as visible as during daylight.

Avoid Distractions: Always practice safe driving habits, but pay special attention during the time change. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving.

Daylight Saving Time is a biannual occurrence that may seem harmless, but it can have serious consequences when it comes to car crashes. Sleep deprivation, reduced visibility, and disrupted circadian rhythms make the roads more dangerous in the days following the time change. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, take the necessary precautions, plan ahead, and stay vigilant while driving during the transition periods. It’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with Daylight Saving Time and do your part to prevent accidents on the road.

A San Diego Car Accident Attorney That Fights for You

If you have been injured in an auto accident through no fault of your own, then no matter of the cause of the incident, you need an experienced San Diego car crash lawyer to go over your case with you. You may be entitled to compensation for things like hospital bills and missed time from work. Call Eugene Bruno & Associates at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) for a free consultation.