Charlotte, NC Traffic Alert: Increased Accident Risk with Daylight Saving Time Change

As drivers across North Carolina adjusted their clocks this past weekend, the end of Daylight Saving Time brought more than just an extra hour of sleep. According to recent insights from AAA, the time shift also marks a notable increase in accidents, particularly in the evening commute hours. The transition into darker evenings and disrupted sleep routines contributes to higher accident rates, highlighting the need for North Carolina drivers to take extra precautions on the road.

A Surge in Evening Crashes

AAA reports a rise in fatal crashes during the period following the end of Daylight Saving Time, as drivers contend with both darkness and drowsiness. A study analyzing data from 2018 to 2022 shows that crash rates doubled in the four weeks after the time change, particularly around the 5 p.m. hour when visibility drops and fatigue often sets in. For instance, Connecticut recorded a jump from 12 pedestrian crashes to 24 in the four weeks following the clock change, with all incidents occurring during the 5 p.m. hour. Tragically, one such accident claimed the life of an elderly woman last year in West Hartford, further underscoring the dangers of drowsy driving.

Understanding the Risks of Drowsy Driving

The darker driving conditions post-Daylight Saving Time mean that drivers might underestimate the impact of reduced visibility and sleep disruption. Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals that drowsy driving played a role in about 17.6% of fatal crashes from 2017 to 2021, leading to nearly 30,000 fatalities over five years. Symptoms of drowsy driving, like difficulty keeping eyes open, lane drifting, or even a lack of memory of the last few miles, can be subtle, making it crucial for drivers to recognize the risks before hitting the road. For those driving at night or during the early evening hours, the risks are even greater.

Tips for Safer Driving After the Time Change

To stay safe, AAA and other traffic safety advocates recommend drivers adjust their routines and take proactive steps to combat drowsiness:

• Get plenty of rest: Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep to avoid fatigue-related risks.
• Take regular breaks: For longer trips, stop every two hours or every 100 miles for a quick recharge.
• Stay alert with a passenger: Carpooling with an alert passenger can help you stay focused, as can taking turns driving.
• Minimize distractions: Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, or medications that could induce drowsiness.
• Use headlights responsibly: Make sure headlights are working and correctly aimed to improve visibility and avoid blinding other drivers.
• Prioritize eye health: Over 60% of U.S. drivers rely on prescription eyewear, yet many have not had an eye exam recently. Keeping prescriptions up-to-date and scheduling regular exams can help prevent accidents in low-light conditions.

Pedestrian and Roadside Worker Safety

Drivers aren't the only ones affected by the time change. Pedestrians and roadside workers are also at heightened risk due to decreased visibility. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 76% of pedestrian fatalities occur in dark conditions, with 4% occurring during dusk or dawn. Pedestrians are urged to cross streets at well-lit intersections, wear reflective clothing, and avoid distractions like music or phone use when walking near traffic. Roadside workers and people stranded on the side of the road also face increased dangers, as they are less visible to passing drivers. In response, AAA and NHTSA urge drivers to slow down and, when possible, move over to give roadside workers and pedestrians a safer distance.

Prioritize Safety This Season

As we adjust to the darker evenings that come with the end of Daylight Saving Time, it’s essential for North Carolina drivers to adopt safety-conscious driving habits. Reduced speed, increased following distances, and careful attention to the road ahead can make a significant difference in preventing accidents. In a state known for its scenic roads and bustling communities, keeping our roads safe is a shared responsibility. By staying vigilant, North Carolina drivers can ensure safer commutes for themselves, pedestrians, and everyone sharing the road.

Why You Should Call Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers After an Accident

If you’ve been in an accident, navigating the aftermath can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and mounting expenses. That’s where the team at Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers steps in, providing you with the support and legal guidance you need to move forward. Located in Charlotte, NC, our firm has a reputation across North Carolina for helping accident victims understand their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.

Our attorneys, Corey Rosensteel and Matthew Fleishman, are committed to making a difference for our clients. With a wealth of experience handling car accident and personal injury cases, we understand the complex factors involved and the tactics insurance companies often use to reduce payouts. Our goal is simple: to stand by you and fight for your best interests. In the words of Corey Rosensteel, “Every client’s case deserves dedicated attention because that’s what leads to real results.”

Experienced, Local, and Ready to Help

Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman means working with a local team who knows North Carolina’s laws and understands the unique challenges of the Charlotte area. Whether you were involved in a minor accident or a serious collision, our team has the experience and local knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf. We take the stress out of the process by handling every aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Start with a Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, you don’t have to face it alone. Call Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers at 1-704-714-1450 for a free consultation. Our compassionate team is here to discuss your case, answer your questions, and provide honest advice on the next steps. Don’t wait—contact us today to learn how we can help you get back on track and secure the compensation you deserve.