The clocks are about to fall back, and while that extra hour of sleep feels like a win, the darker evenings are something else entirely. Suddenly, your usual 5 p.m. drive home looks more like 9 p.m., dim streets, glare from headlights, and shadowy crosswalks that sneak up on you faster than a Monday morning.
Most drivers don’t think about their insurance when the time changes. But the shift into shorter days and longer nights actually affects when (and how) you drive. And that can influence the kind of protection you need.
Commutes Get Riskier After Dark
According to several safety reports, accident rates spike during the first few weeks after daylight saving ends. Visibility drops. Reaction time slows. And let’s be real, some drivers don’t exactly adjust their behavior to match the darker roads.
If you find yourself commuting more frequently in the dark this season, it’s worth taking a second look at your policy. Do you have the right coverage for nighttime risks like deer collisions, fog-related accidents, or poor visibility crashes? Does your deductible make sense for higher-risk hours?
Safe Night Driving Could Actually Save You Money
Here’s the good news: some insurance companies are offering telematics programs that actually reward safe driving habits, even at night. These programs use either a small device or an app to monitor how, when, and how well you drive.
If you’re braking gently, keeping a safe speed, and showing caution during late-day rush hour, you could see discounts applied directly to your premium. And if you’re now driving less often thanks to hybrid work setups or remote jobs, telematics can also help prove that, leading to lower rates over time.
One Chicago commuter told us he signed up for a program just before winter hit. “I was a little skeptical, but within three months, I got a discount for ‘excellent braking.’ I didn’t even know that was a thing!”
A Small Change Can Mean Big Savings
The end of daylight saving might not seem like the time to revisit your car insurance, but if your routine changes, your coverage should too. Whether you’re driving home in the dark or adjusting to new school pickup hours, make sure your policy is keeping pace with your life.
QuoteScouts makes it easy to compare options and find plans that reward your real driving habits, not just the zip code you live in.
Because your commute may change with the light, but your peace of mind shouldn’t.
