Minnesotans have a lot on their minds right now. In no particular order, there are the Vikings, voting and Halloween. It’s easy to forget that in the wee hours of Nov. 3, we’ll gain an hour.
The end of Daylight Saving Time (DST), just like the start of it in the Spring, brings one of the most dangerous times on the road. That’s partly due to the change in the hours when the sun rises and sets and partly due to the adjustment it requires in the human body.
A dangerous time for humans (and deer)
It’s been found that fatal vehicle crashes increase after DST ends. Further, the number of vehicle-deer collisions also rises by 16% in the week following the time change. That’s especially concerning in a state with so many deer. These crashes are not only generally catastrophic for the deer. They can cause serious injuries for motorists – particularly if they swerve to avoid an animal and end up hitting another vehicle.
Much of the danger on the road caused by the end of DST results from people suddenly driving home from work in the dark – and forgetting to turn on their headlights if they don’t have automatic ones. Even if it’s not yet dark when you leave work, driving towards the sunset can be blinding, which can be even more dangerous. So can driving into the sunrise in the morning.
The effect of the change on the sleep/wake cycle
The changes in the human body – specifically the sleep/wake cycle — caused by an extra hour can’t be underestimated. According to AAA, studies have found that “the biggest impact of setting our clocks back one hour can be felt on some of the skills that affect the quality of driving – concentration, alertness behind the wheel, and reaction time to potential hazards.”
Just being aware of all of this can help you be a safer driver in the upcoming weeks. Allowing a little extra time to get where you need to go can help as you adjust to the changes in daylight and to your body.
Unfortunately, not everyone is so conscientious. DST is no excuse for negligent or reckless behavior on the road. If you suffer injuries in a crash caused by another driver, don’t settle for less than the compensation to which you’re entitled. Having legal guidance can help you protect your right to a fair settlement.