Spring Forward Safely: How Daylight Saving Time Impacts Crash & Injury Rates
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
As we “spring forward” each March, we gain an hour of evening daylight—but lose an hour of sleep. That seemingly small shift can have a measurable impact on crash and injury rates.
Research has shown an increase in motor vehicle crashes in the days immediately following the start of Daylight Saving Time, largely due to sleep disruption, darker morning commutes, and changes in routine.
For injury prevention advocates, it’s an important seasonal reminder: sleep, alertness, and visibility matter.
🚗 Potential Hazards
Drowsy driving due to lost sleep
Darker early morning commutes
Pedestrian visibility challenges
Disrupted routines for children and teens
Increased workplace fatigue and reduced alertness
Even one hour of lost sleep can impair reaction time similarly to alcohol impairment.
✅ Safety Tips
Prepare Before the Time Change
Gradually adjust bedtime 15–20 minutes earlier a few days before the change.
Prioritize 7–9 hours of sleep for adults; 8–10 hours for teens.
On the Road
Avoid driving if you feel drowsy.
Increase following distance.
Be extra cautious in school zones and crosswalks.
Watch carefully for pedestrians and bicyclists during darker morning hours.
At Work
Encourage flexible scheduling if possible.
Emphasize fatigue awareness in safety-sensitive professions.
🚨 What To Do in Case of a Crash
Check yourself and others for injuries.
Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
Move vehicles out of traffic if safe to do so.
Exchange information and document the scene.
Seek medical evaluation—even minor symptoms like headache or stiffness can indicate injury.
📚 Additional Resources
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Drowsy Driving Prevention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Sleep Health Resources
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