This weekend we go back to the time known as Daylight Savings Time. It begins on Sunday, March 9th. With the return of the adjusted clock, it is important to consider how this shift in time can affect your driving. Daylight Savings brings longer days, with the clocks “springing forward” an hour. While this change allows us to enjoy more daylight, it can also take a toll on our body clocks, making us feel more tired and less alert, which can affect our driving abilities. To ensure your safety and ease your adjustment to the time change, here are a few tips to help you stay safe on the road.
Start Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule Now
One of the best ways to prepare for the time change is to gradually adjust your sleep schedule. About a week before Daylight Savings begins, try going to bed an hour earlier each night. This gradual change makes the adjustment smoother and reduces the effects of losing that hour of sleep. Additionally, limiting your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine during this time can help improve your sleep quality. Proper rest is essential for safe driving, as driving while fatigued can slow your reaction time and increase the likelihood of distractions. In extreme cases, drowsy driving can lead to accidents or even falling asleep at the wheel, which can have serious consequences.
Check Your Vehicle’s Lights
Since Daylight Savings means longer daylight hours in the evening, mornings will remain darker for longer. If you have a morning commute, it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle’s lights are functioning properly. Check your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to make sure they are all in good working order. Poor visibility in the early morning hours can make driving hazardous, so ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped to handle these conditions is essential for your safety.
Inspect Your Tires for Spring Roads
With the transition from winter to spring, road conditions can change dramatically. Potholes, which are more common in the spring due to winter’s wear on the roads, can pose a serious hazard to drivers. The freezing and thawing of the ground often creates these road depressions, which may be harder to spot if they are covered in rainwater or leftover snow. Before hitting the road, make sure your tires are in good condition, with enough tread to handle bumpy or uneven roads. While it is always best to avoid potholes, if you cannot avoid one, slow down and pass over it cautiously to avoid damage to your tires or vehicle.
Prepare for Sun Glare
As we shift to longer days, you may find yourself driving more frequently in bright sunlight. Sun glare can be particularly dangerous when driving early in the morning or later in the evening. To protect your eyes and improve visibility, keep a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses in your vehicle or on you at all times. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce the impact of glare and make your drive safer.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you and your vehicle are ready for the time change and the spring driving season. A little preparation can go a long way in making sure you stay safe on the road as we “spring forward.”
