The Hidden Dangers of the Time Change
Every November, we gain an extra hour of sleep when daylight saving time ends. Sounds like a win, right? But that extra hour comes with a hidden cost: suddenly, your evening commute is pitch black, and drivers across the country are struggling to adjust.
The week following the time change sees a measurable spike in accidents, pedestrian fatalities, and insurance claims.
The problem isn’t just the earlier darkness, it’s that our bodies and brains haven’t caught up yet. Studies show the abrupt shift disrupts our circadian rhythm, causing drowsiness, slower reaction times, and impaired judgment.
Combine this with more pedestrians, cyclists, and joggers on the road in low-light conditions, and it becomes a recipe for disaster.
Visibility and Prevention: What Drivers Must Do
Visibility becomes everything. Dim, foggy, or misaligned headlights can reduce what you see by up to 80%. Cloudy lenses, cracks, or burned-out bulbs put you and others at risk. A quick inspection or professional restoration is a small investment compared to the cost of a collision.
And remember, daytime running lights aren’t enough. Use full headlights and check taillights to avoid rear-end accidents.
But safety isn’t just about your car. Adjusting to the time change means slowing down, increasing following distance, and keeping your windshield clean to reduce glare. If you feel drowsy, pull over, fatigue-related crashes are preventable only if you take them seriously.
At QuoteScouts, we believe preparation makes the difference. Check your lights, adjust your driving habits, and stay alert. Don’t let shorter days turn into longer problems on your record, or on your insurance premiums.
