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Turn back the clocks, daylight saving time ends this week

As we 'fall back' and daylight saving time ends, ensure your road safety with simple tips for adjusting to darker commutes and shorter days.
Village Life
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As we approach the end of daylight saving time this Sunday, November 3rd, many people look forward to gaining an extra hour of sleep.

However, with the arrival of shorter days comes diminished sunlight, and this change in our daily routines can pose safety risks for road users.

In this article, we'll explore the effects of the time change on road safety and provide valuable tips to help you stay safe on the roads during this transition.

The Impact of Daylight Saving Time on Road Safety: The transition from daylight saving time to standard time can affect road safety in several ways:

  1. Reduced Daylight Hours: As we set our clocks back, it gets darker earlier in the evening. This reduced visibility can lead to an increase in pedestrian collisions, as people may find themselves walking or cycling in low-light conditions.

  2. Driver Fatigue: The abrupt time change can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to driver fatigue, reduced alertness, and an increased risk of accidents.

Safety Tips for Road Users:

  1. Be Visible:

    • Pedestrians: Wear reflective clothing or accessories, and carry a flashlight or use the flashlight feature on your smartphone if walking when it's really dark. Make sure you can be seen by drivers, especially when crossing the street.
    • Cyclists: Equip your bicycle with reflectors and use both front and rear lights, even during daylight hours. Wear bright, reflective clothing.

  2. Stay Alert:

    • Drivers: Pay extra attention to pedestrians and cyclists, particularly during dawn and dusk when visibility is limited. Reduce your speed in residential areas and near pedestrian crossings.
    • Pedestrians and Cyclists: Stay vigilant and avoid distractions such as headphones or smartphones while on the road. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.

  3. Plan Your Routes:

    • Whenever possible, choose well-lit streets and paths when walking or cycling.
    • If you're a driver, plan your routes to allow for extra time, considering the reduced visibility and potential traffic congestion.

  4. Get Adequate Sleep:

    • In the days leading up to the time change, try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule to minimize the effects of fatigue.

  5. Check Your Vehicle:

    • For drivers, ensure that your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are functioning correctly. Clean your windshield and mirrors to optimize visibility.

The end of daylight saving time brings with it the promise of an extra hour of sleep, but it also presents new safety challenges on the road. By taking simple precautions, such as staying visible, staying alert, and planning your routes, road users can reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy a safer transition into the winter months.

As we turn our clocks back, let's also turn our attention to safety, ensuring that everyone on the road can navigate this seasonal change with care and caution.