Daylight Savings Time Accidents Increase Risk
After long, late summer days where the sun would not set until late in the evening, many have trouble adjusting to it getting darker earlier. As the result of setting clocks back on November 5th, you may be experiencing sleep disturbances, while dealing with nighttime vision problems when driving home from work or picking children up from after-school activities. While this combination increases your risk of daylight savings time accidents, we have tips to help you adjust.
Adjusting to the End of Daylight Savings Time
Researchers at Harvard Medical School claim that ‘extra hour’ of sleep we look forward to at the end of daylight savings time actually does more harm than good. Studies show even this slight change can throw sleep habits off, making it harder to fall asleep at night and to wake up in the morning. The problem can last for weeks, and even being off just slightly in the amount of sleep you are getting can have a major impact on your driving abilities.
The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that the effects of ‘drowsy driving’ often mirror those of being under the influence, leading to over 100,000 car accidents each year. Driving during rush hour, in the dark and at the end of a long day can be particularly risky. To protect yourself, drivers are encouraged to practice the following:
- Go slow. While you may be tired and eager to get home, avoid speeding or driving too fast for conditions.
- Give other drivers plenty of room. When you are drowsy, your reflexes will tend to be slower. Avoid tailgating, which decreases the amount of time you and those behind you have to respond to traffic changes.
- Stay alert. Drink a cup of coffee before you leave work and keep your car cool while driving to help you stay awake and focused. Avoid distractions such as cellphones or texting.
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Problems with Driving at Night
The fall time schedule also means you will be driving at night more often, something many drivers have difficulties with. To avoid glare and vision problems that make daylight savings time accidents more likely, the NSC recommends the following tips:
- Make sure your headlights are clean and aimed straight ahead.
- Clean your windshield thoroughly, both inside and out.
- Keep your dashboard dim and look slightly above rather than directly at other driver’s headlights.
- If you wear glasses, consider getting anti-reflective lenses.
In the event you are involved in an accident, pull over as far as possible on the side of the road, and put your flashers on so other drivers will see you.
Been In An Accident? Get Help
If you’ve been in a daylight savings time accident or any other type of collision, report the accident to the police and seek medical care. Next, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm for help. Our South Carolina car accident legal team can advise you on your rights to compensation while negotiating with insurers on your behalf. Before accepting a settlement amount that may be less than what you deserve, call or contact us online today and request a free consultation in our Charleston office or at one of our seven locations throughout the state.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
