Walking, Biking, and Driving Safely After “Falling Back”
Walking into Autumn Safely
With autumn in full swing, a sense of urgency may be felt to pack all of our seasonal and outdoor activities into a dwindling amount of daylight hours. Particularly when it comes to getting outside for some sunshine and physical activity, it can be hard to find the motivation to keep getting those steps in as the days get shorter and colder post-daylight saving. Especially when we consider the risks that limited daylight impose on our commutes as pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
The History of Daylight Saving Time (DST)
Observed from March 10 to November 3 of 2024, daylight saving time (DST) is the addition of one hour in the fall (fall back) or subtraction of one hour in the spring (spring forward) to allow for more daylight in winter mornings and evening light in spring afternoons. Daylight saving was initially established as the social normality in 1883 with the boom in railroad expansion. The Uniform Time Act and the Department of Transportation, both established in 1966, made DST a legal requirement for the United States, although individual counties can apply for exemption. Since its creation in 2005, the Energy Policy Act established the start date of DST to the second Sunday of March and the end date to the first Sunday of November which has been in practice since 2007.
The Dangers of Less Daylight on the Road
On Sunday, November 3, 2024, people all over the world will turn their clocks back one hour in observance of daylight-saving time coming to an end. In 2022, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles found that drowsiness connected to DST was related to 5,163 reported crashes. A study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University found that “pedestrians walking around at dusk are nearly three times more likely to be struck and killed by cars in the days following the end of daylight saving time.” Read on for safety tips in preparation for the end of DST.
Walking and Driving Safely After Daylight Saving Time
Despite the chilly dim afternoons and less visibility on our roads as the days get shorter, going outside and walking safely is still an option. The mental and physical health benefits of walking far outweigh the risks when walkers take the appropriate precautions. For those that won’t let early sunsets stop their walks, here are safety tips to protect yourself while you’re walking:
See! Use lights and reflectors. Phone flashlights are not enough, try headlamps or glowing bracelets. Light up dog collars and leashes are great for your furry friends!
Be seen! Wear bright or reflective clothing. Visibility becomes much scarcer after DST so make sure cars can see you and you can see them. Learn more about the NYS Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee’s See! Be Seen! campaign here.
Stick to routes you know and always plan your route. Always know where you are and where you are going, try to remain in well-lit areas, and remain alert.
Be mindful of other road users. When there is no sidewalk, walk against the flow of traffic so you can see vehicles. When possible, make eye contact with oncoming drivers so you know they see you.
Use the buddy system. There’s safety in numbers— try to walk with a friend or family member if possible. If you must go alone, make sure you tell someone your route or consider sharing your location of they are a trusted individual.
Stay informed. Check weather forecasts and plan around inclement weather; movement alternatives for rainy days are always a good idea.
Follow all other Vehicle & Traffic (V&T) laws for pedestrians. Click here for a quick reference guide of NYS V&T laws for pedestrians.
For those behind the wheel, earlier sunset means a darker rush hour. Here are safety tips to ensure a smooth ride during the colder months:
Check your lights: make sure exterior and interior lights work as well as they should before heading out.
Make sure your tires are ready for the colder months! Cold mornings mean low tire pressure, check for leaks and tread.
Top off fluids, oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and level them all!
Drive more defensively in preparation for pedestrians, potholes, fog, animals, ice patches, or other drivers without their lights on.
Whether you’re walking or biking for transportation or better health, you can do it safely after daylight saving time with the proper preparations and precautions. All road users should proceed with caution and remain vigilant whether they’re behind the wheel or on the sidewalk. Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy the season of giving!
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