Daylight Savings Safety Tips

If you have a normal routine around 5 o’clock, you might notice it’s much darker than it used to be.  Although we may be used to these daily routines and activities, the darkness can make quite an impact in regard to our safety.  It is important for motorists and pedestrians to take precautionary measures to avoid any type of accident or injury.

Motorists need to slow down.  It is harder to see pedestrians, other vehicles and signs during evening hours.  Make sure your windshield, windows and mirrors are clean so there is no glare coming from oncoming headlights or street lights that will impair your vision.  Also, check and see that your defrosters and headlights are working properly and that you have enough washer fluid.

Pedestrians should always carry a flashlight and use reflective materials such as fluorescent tape.  Attaching fluorescent tape to clothing, backpacks, purses or briefcases will help make you more visible to motorists.  Also, you should not depend on traffic signals; drivers may be distracted and still adjusting to the nighttime travel environment.  Try and avoid walking on the streets and use sidewalks whenever possible; however, if you have to walk on the street, you should always walk facing the traffic.

Most importantly, motorists and pedestrians should always stay focused and minimize distractions.  With the new time change, sleep patterns can be affected.  Being alert can help avoid accidents and prevent injuries during daylight or evening hours.  We encourage our readers to take these precautionary steps before heading out, to keep themselves and others safe on the road.

Source:

Bikelgh.org, “Safety Tips for Pedestrians, Bicyclists, and Drivers as Daylight Saving Time Ends”