Daylight Savings Time: Does “Falling Back” Cause More Car Accidents?

Every November, clocks are set back an hour as the United States switches from Daylight Savings Time back to standard time. Although many enjoy the extra hour of sleep obtained from “falling back,” this change in time may increase the risk of car accidents.

How does “Falling Back” Cause More Car Accidents?

Studies have shown driving at night is more dangerous than driving during the day. When daylight savings time ends in November, we lose an hour of afternoon sunlight, and more drivers are commuting home in the dark each day. Driving in the dark can increase the risk of car accidents due to a variety of factors including:

• Reduced Visibility: Darkness makes it harder to see other vehicles, road signs, pedestrians, and road conditions. This reduced visibility can increase the risk of accidents occurring.
• Glares and Reflections: Headlights and streetlights can create glares and reflections in the dark, which can impair vision and make it more difficult to see.
• Limited Depth Perception: It is more challenging to judge the distance between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road in the dark.

The abrupt change in daylight leaves people little time to adapt at the end of daylight savings. Drivers may not be used to the darkness, which can lead to an increased accident rate.

What Precautions Should you Take to Drive Safely in the Dark?

Driving in the dark can be dangerous, especially when your body hasn’t fully adjusted to the time change yet. The following safety tips can help ensure safety when driving in the dark:

• Use your headlights
• Reduce your speed
• Increase your following distance
• Avoid distractions when driving
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Avoid drowsy or fatigued driving

Practicing caution and adapting your driving habits to the nighttime conditions can help decrease the risk of an accident occurring. On average, it takes about a week for most people to adjust to the time change. In the week following the end of Daylight Savings time, it is important to be extra cautious and extra careful on the road.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, our team of experienced attorneys are here to help. Contact The Barnes Firm today at (800) 800-0000 for a FREE case evaluation.

Richard Barnes – President of The Barnes Firm

Richard Barnes: “As President of The Barnes Firm, I have dedicated my career to achieving justice in hundreds of cases for the victims of injuries caused through the fault of others. Additionally, I have been honored to have been elected Best Lawyer and a Super Lawyer”

Years of Experience: 30+ years
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