When Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends each fall, we “fall back” an hour and gain some extra sleep. But as the clocks change, so do driving conditions—and research shows that this shift can actually increase the risk of car accidents.
As daylight fades earlier and visibility decreases, drivers in East Texas and across the country face new hazards on the road. At Vice Henley & Dilbeck, we’ve seen how a seemingly small change in time can have significant consequences for Texas drivers.
Why Accidents Spike When the Clocks Change
The end of Daylight Saving Time brings darker evenings and early sunsets, which means more drivers are on the road after dark. That shift affects visibility, driver alertness, and even reaction time.
Studies have shown that car accident rates often rise during the week following the time change. Here’s why:
Reduced Visibility:
The sudden change in daylight hours means more commuters are driving home in low light. Pedestrians, cyclists, and road hazards become harder to see, increasing the risk of collisions.
Driver Fatigue:
Even though we “gain” an hour of sleep, the disruption to our internal clocks can cause drowsiness and slower reaction times. Sleep experts note that it can take several days for our bodies to adjust.
Rush Hour Darkness:
Evening rush hour now happens after sunset, meaning more drivers are dealing with glare from headlights, limited sightlines, and fatigue—all at the busiest driving times of day.
Weather Complications:
In Texas, the end of DST often coincides with fall weather changes—rain, fog, and colder mornings. When combined with darker conditions, the risk of accidents increases significantly.
How Texas Drivers Can Stay Safe After Daylight Saving Time Ends
The time change may be out of your control, but how you respond to it isn’t. A few proactive habits can help you reduce risk and stay safe on East Texas roads:
- Adjust Your Schedule: Give yourself a few extra minutes for your commute. Rushing through new traffic patterns or low-light conditions increases danger.
- Check Your Headlights: Ensure both your headlights and taillights are clean and functioning properly. This is one of the simplest ways to improve visibility for you and others.
- Stay Alert for Pedestrians and Cyclists: With darker evenings, it’s harder to see people walking or biking. Slow down in areas near crosswalks and residential neighborhoods.
- Avoid Distracted Driving: Phones, dashboard screens, and even adjusting the radio can take your eyes off the road. At night, that distraction is even riskier.
- Watch for Fatigue: If you feel tired while driving, pull over and rest. Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as driving under the influence.
When an Accident Happens, We Stand Tall for You
Despite every precaution, accidents can still occur—especially during seasonal transitions, such as the end of Daylight Saving Time. If you’re injured in a crash caused by another driver’s negligence, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
Royse City Auto Accident Attorneys
At Vice Henley & Dilbeck, we assist clients across East Texas, including Royse City, Forney, Greenville, Rockwall, and surrounding communities, in recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our attorneys stand by your side, fighting for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact Vice Henley & Dilbeck today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Speak directly with an attorney who understands the challenges you’re facing—and who’s ready to fight for you.