Every year on the first Sunday of November, we move our clocks back an hour. While many rejoice over the gaining of precious extra zzz’s, daylight savings time just might pose potential safety risks.Data is mixed on whether the clock change makes car accidents more likely. On one hand, it increases visibility for drivers in the morning hours, a good thing. On the flip side, it’s darker at the end of the day, when people are tired and rushing home from work. Plus, for that first week or so after the transition, many people’s circadian rhythms and sleep patterns take a hit, which can cause a drop in alertness behind the wheel.Stay safe come Nov. 2 and the days following with these three tips:1. Sleep soundly before the changeover. Don’t go into the weekend of DST with a sleep deficit. You need to be rested to come out on the other side with as little fatigue as possible.2. Get outside for a few minutes on Sunday morning. Exposing yourself to sunlight shortly after you get up helps set your internal clock and makes you feel awake. (This is a good habit to have year-round, by the way.)3. Be extra vigilant as a pedestrian. You’re suddenly going to be a lot tougher to see in the evening than you used to be, so make sure motorists can spot you when crossing the road or walking in a parking lot. Check out our tips on staying visible in the dark here.
