Every spring, most Americans set their clocks forward one hour for Daylight Saving Time. While the change may seem minor, losing even a single hour of sleep can have real effects on health and safety.
Research shows that the week following the time change can bring higher risks of car accidents, workplace injuries, and fatigue-related incidents. In fact, a recent study published in the journal Current Biology estimates that the risk of fatal motor vehicle accidents increases by about 6% after the spring time shift.
That’s why it’s important to take extra precautions. These daylight savings safety tips can help reduce your risk of accidents and keep you and your family safe during the transition.
WHY DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME CAN INCREASE ACCIDENT RISK
Daylight Saving Time disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates sleep and alertness. Even a small disruption can lead to:
- Sleep deprivation
- Reduced concentration
- Slower reaction times
- Increased fatigue while driving
A large study published in Current Biology analyzed more than 700,000 fatal crashes across the United States and found that the shift to Daylight Saving Time was associated with a measurable increase in fatal accidents.
Researchers believe several factors contribute to this increase, including:
- Drivers adjusting to darker morning commutes
- Sleep loss from the one-hour time change
- Disruptions to daily routines
Although many states have debated making Daylight Saving Time permanent, the seasonal clock change remains in place across most of the United States as of 2026.
SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVERS
Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence, and is one of the most common causes of auto accidents. If you’re commuting during the week after the time change, these daylight savings safety tips can help reduce the risk of an accident.
Get Extra Sleep Before the Time Change
Start adjusting your sleep schedule several days before the time change. Going to bed 15–20 minutes earlier each night can help your body adapt gradually.
Avoid Drowsy Driving
Fatigue significantly reduces reaction time and awareness. If you feel sleepy behind the wheel:
- Pull over and take a short break
- Drink water or caffeine
- Avoid long drives late at night
Watch for Pedestrians
Darker mornings and evenings can reduce visibility. Drivers should remain especially alert in:
- School zones
- Crosswalks
- Busy city streets
Slow Down During Your Commute
The days immediately following the time change can bring heavier fatigue across the population. Extra caution while driving may help prevent collisions.
SAFETY TIPS FOR PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
Daylight Saving Time can also affect pedestrians and cyclists because of changing light conditions.
To stay safe:
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
- Use lights or reflectors when biking
- Cross streets only at marked crosswalks
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing
Reduced visibility during early mornings and evenings makes these precautions especially important.
WORKPLACE SAFETY AFTER DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME
Fatigue doesn’t just affect drivers. Research has shown that workplace injuries may increase after the spring time change due to decreased alertness.
Employees and employers can reduce risks by:
- Allowing time to adjust to new schedules
- Encouraging adequate rest
- Taking short breaks to stay alert
- Avoiding risky or complex tasks while fatigued
Even small adjustments can help prevent accidents.
HEALTH TIPS FOR ADJUSTING TO THE TIME CHANGE
These daylight savings safety tips can help your body adapt more quickly to the time shift:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Limit caffeine late in the day
- Get morning sunlight to reset your body clock
- Avoid screen time before bed
Most people adjust within a few days, but taking steps to manage fatigue can significantly reduce safety risks.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT
While many accidents are preventable, fatigue and reduced visibility after the time change can still lead to serious crashes. Knowing what to do after a car accident can protect your safety and your claim.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
At TORKLAW, our experienced personal injury attorneys help accident victims recover the compensation they deserve.
STAY SAFE THIS DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME
The shift to Daylight Saving Time may only change the clock by one hour, but its effects can be significant. Following these daylight savings safety tips can help protect you, your family, and others on the road.
If you are injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, contact the experienced attorneys at TORKLAW for a free consultation.
Call 888-845-9696 today to speak with our legal team.
