How Can Drivers Prepare for the End of Daylight Saving Time?

Take in the long days while you can, as the end of daylight saving time (DST) is coming up on Sunday, Nov. 6. Everyone will set their clocks back an hour, giving them an extra hour of rest. However, studies show that an increase in car accidents happens during the fall months as DST ends.

Disruptions in the body’s natural sleep cycle will affect you physically, mentally, and emotionally, and car accidents might increase following the time change. To avoid a DST accident, you should follow a few safety tips.

Get to Know Some Nighttime Driving Safety Tips

Changing the clocks means that it gets dark by 5:00 p.m. It takes time to get used to driving in the dark, particularly during rush hour when traffic is heavy.

Some nighttime driving safety tips include:

• Make sure that your windshield is clean. Dust inside or outside the glass can create a glare and impact visibility.
• Ensure your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working correctly. Turn your headlights on one hour before sunset.
• Watch out for wet leaves and other debris on the road. The leaves that have fallen can be very slippery. Leaves also cover potholes and cracks in the street. Potholes are dangerous, forcing you could lose control of your vehicle and get into a severe accident.
• Do not look directly at the headlights from oncoming cars. Look to the right to avoid being blinded by the other vehicle’s headlights.
• Pay attention to the reflections you see, as this could be an animal’s eyes. Slow down to avoid hitting the animal.
• Avoid driving if you are tired. If you need to go, open your window, and for longer trips, take breaks, or pull over and take a short nap to avoid drowsy driving.

Make Sure That Your Vehicle Is Well-Maintained

As the seasons change, it is always wise to get your car maintenance done. A skilled mechanic will ensure that your tires are properly inflated, the brakes are in good condition, the fluid levels are replenished, and the headlights and taillights are all working.

Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car

While this will not prevent an accident, it will ensure you are ready for an emergency. An emergency kit should include the following:

• Warm blanket.
• Extra clothing.
• Bottled water.
• Ice scraper.
• Shovel.
• Cellphone charger.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• Non-perishable food items.
• Basic tool kit.
• First-aid kit.

Camden Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Help Injured Drivers After an Accident Following the Time Change

Navigating the complexities of a car accident while recovering from injuries is not something you have to do alone. Our Camden car accident accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law can work with you following a DST-related crash. We have offices in Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and we proudly serve clients throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey, including Mt. Holly, Camden County, and Vineland. Call us at 856-414-0010 or contact us online for a free consultation.