How the End of Daylight Savings Time May Affect Your Driving

By Eugene Bruno on October 25, 2024

As the amount of sunlight decreases, visibility becomes a significant concern for drivers. Dusk can be a particularly dangerous time, as many people will be commuting home from work or school in dimmer lighting conditions. And studies show that the risk of accidents increases during this period. In fact, one study spanning 20 years by Current Biology highlights how drowsiness and a disrupted internal clock can yield hazardous results on the road. After analyzing over 732,000 car crashes, the study concluded that there was a 6% rise in fatal crashes during the first week following the time change.

This statistic underscores the importance of being vigilant as we transition to darker driving conditions. So, with the time change around the corner, it’s important to be aware of how Daylight Saving Time affects driving conditions.

Tips for Safe Driving

1. Adjust Your Schedule: If possible, avoid driving during peak dark commute hours, especially during the first few weeks following the time change. While everyone is getting used to the time change, this can help you avoid drowsy drivers.
2. Use Headlights Properly: Ensure your headlights are in good working order. If they’re not set to automatic, remember you’ll have to turn your lights on earlier as it will start getting dark earlier.
3. Stay Alert: The time change can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to drowsiness. To improve your sleep, establish an early bedtime routine and reduce screen time before bed. During the day, find ways to stay awake on the road, such as carpooling, drinking caffeine in moderation, or exercising before driving. Remember to take a break every two hours or 100 miles to help you stay alert.
4. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: With darkness, it becomes harder to see pedestrians and cyclists. Always be cautious, especially in residential areas, and watch for crosswalks.
5. Increase Following Distance: Darkness affects your depth perception. Maintain extra distance behind the vehicle in front of you to allow for extra reaction time.
6. Keep Windows Clear: Clean, clear windows will provide critical visibility when driving in low-light conditions.
7. Be Mindful of Wildlife: Wildlife is generally more active at dusk. Be alert for deer or other animals crossing the road, particularly in rural or wooded areas.
8. Adapt to Weather Changes: November often brings unpredictable weather. Be prepared for rain, fog, or even early snow at higher elevations. Adjust your driving speed and distance accordingly.
9. Combat Sun Glare: While days are shorter, sun glare can still pose a risk during early morning and late afternoon drives. Use sun visors and wear sunglasses to reduce glare.
10. Limit Distractions: Stay focused on the road. Avoid using your phone or engaging in activities that divert your attention from driving.

Eugene Bruno & Associates Can Help

The time change means driving in darker conditions, and driving in darker conditions means an inherent increase in the risk of accidents. While we can take measures to improve safety on the road during dusk—such as following the tips provided—there’s still no guarantee that others will be implementing safe driving practices. If you’re involved in a car accident, you want an experienced attorney on your side.

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, our lawyers have over 40 years of combined experience. And with a 99.7% success rate and tens of millions of dollars recovered for our clients, we can help.

Contact our car accident attorneys in San Diego at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688).