Spring Forward, Fall Back

Daylight Saving Time Ends November 4th

When the clocks fall back each year, it's only by an hour, but research suggests it may take days for us to adjust to the time difference. As we approach the end of daylight saving time, it is important to remind people that historically, this is the time of year when collisions tend to spike as our bodies adjust to the new sleep patterns and people are out on the streets in the dark more often. Bottom line, this is a good time to call on all of us to be even more aware and step up our safe driving skills.

What You Can Do

The change of waking time coupled with earlier nightfall throws off your internal clock, so make sure you're alert at all times and never drive while overtired. The shift from drowsy to asleep can happen more quickly than people think, which is very dangerous. It's important to ensure all interior lights are off in the car and that onboard navigation devices are dimmed so the bright lights don't distract you and please be aware of all drivers on the road. Just because you're wide awake and focused doesn't mean that your fellow drivers are as well. Be aware of other cars swaying between lanes and abruptly stopping. And of course, always look out for pedestrians.

What We Are Doing

Speeding is a top cause of crashes both here in San Francisco and throughout California. Vision Zero SF recently re-launched its Safe Speeds campaign to raise awareness around this deadly issue. Speeding Kills bus shelter ads have been installed throughout the city in addition to a radio piece running during traffic segments on various stations.

What To Look Out For

More people walking are severely injured in traffic crashes in the 6 p.m. hour when it is dark outside. The sun will soon set earlier in the day, people need to drive safely. The time between dusk and darkness impacts our vision by making objects less clear and decreasing our depth perception. So please be alert and watch out for pedestrians.