Motorists, first and foremost, need to slow down. It is more difficult to see pedestrians, other vehicles and signs during evening hours. Make sure your windshield, windows and mirrors are clean to prevent glare coming from oncoming headlights or street lights that can impair your vision. Also, check and see that your defrosters and headlights are working properly and that you have enough washer fluid.
Pedestrians should always carry a flashlight and use reflective materials such as fluorescent tape. Attaching fluorescent tape to clothing, backpacks, purses or briefcases will help make you more visible to motorists. Also, you should not depend on traffic signals; drivers may be distracted and still adjusting to the daylight savings time change. Try and avoid walking on the streets and use sidewalks whenever possible; however, if you have to walk on the street, you should always walk facing traffic.
Most importantly, motorists and pedestrians should always stay focused and minimize distractions. With the time change, sleeping patterns can be affected, so it’s important to be aware of your need for rest. Being alert can to avoid accidents and prevent injuries during daylight or evening hours. As darkness falls earlier, we encourage our readers to take these precautionary steps before heading out, to keep themselves and others safe.
Source: NHTSA: CONSUMER ADVISORY: “NHTSA Offers Some Important Safety Tips as Daylight Saving Time Ends.” November 1, 2013