As standard time (ST) approaches, the familiar ritual of turning the clocks back one hour is almost upon us. While many of us look forward to that extra 60 minutes of sleep, there’s a less pleasant consequence to this time shift: an increase in Quad Cities standard time car crashes. In this article, the Quad City injury lawyers at Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham explore the reasons behind this rise in road mishaps when standard time begins.
Reduced Visibility: A Link to Quad Cities Standard Time Car Crashes
One of the most glaring factors contributing to the surge of Quad Cities standard time car collisions is reduced visibility. With the sun setting earlier, the evening commute is often shrouded in darkness. This lack of natural light makes it considerably more challenging for drivers to spot pedestrians, cyclists, and fellow motorists. The resulting reduced visibility significantly raises the likelihood of accidents.
Drowsy Driving: Losing an Hour Takes a Toll
Transitioning to standard time disrupts sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, making drivers more susceptible to drowsy driving. Those already fatigued from their daily grind may feel even more drained when navigating the roads in the dark. This heightened drowsiness impairs reaction times and decision-making, making accidents more imminent.
The Shadow of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
It’s not just the clock change that’s to blame; the arrival of standard time often coincides with the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), seasonal depressive symptoms can last about four to five months per year; SAD symptoms usually start late fall / early winter and go away during the spring and summer.
Individuals SAD symptoms may include:
- Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
- Overeating, particularly with a craving for carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Social withdrawal (feeling like “hibernating”)
- Reduced concentration and energy levels
In turn, drivers experiencing SAD symptoms may find it harder to focus on the road, increasing the risk of car wrecks occurring in the Quad Cities area.
If you are injured in a Quad Cities car crash, contact Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham for a free, no-obligation consultation. You may be entitled to compensation if you suffered an injury caused by a medically unfit driver.
Changing Routines: The Confusion Factor
Resetting the clocks can disrupt our daily routines and lead to confusion. This seemingly minor disturbance can significantly impact drivers’ mental states, making them more prone to errors. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, even a small disruption can have significant life-altering consequences.
Rushing Through the Twilight Hour
When daylight disappears, drivers tend to speed to reach their destinations before complete darkness sets in. This rush, combined with reduced visibility and a potential lack of alertness due to the time change, creates a perfect storm for Quad Cities standard time car crashes. In their hurry, drivers may overlook traffic signals, neglect to check their blind spots, or engage in risky maneuvers that require an immediate doctor visit.
Ways to Help Reduce Risks of a Quad Cities ST Auto Accident
As standard time begins and darkness becomes a part of our daily commutes in the Quad Cities, it’s crucial to adopt safety measures to mitigate the increased risk of accidents:
- Check Your Lights: ensure all your vehicle’s lights are working correctly, from headlights to brake lights, as well as turn signals.
- Avoid Distractions: stay focused on the road and minimize distractions such as texting, phone calls, or fiddling with the radio.
- Drive Defensively: anticipate the actions of other drivers and be prepared for sudden stops or lane changes.
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: keep a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow adequate reaction time.
- Adapt to the Conditions: be aware of weather conditions and road hazards that can further reduce visibility and adjust your driving accordingly.
- Get Adequate Rest: ensure you are well-rested and alert before embarking on your journey, especially during the transition to standard time.
The transition to standard time comes with its own challenges, and increased car accidents are one of them. Understanding the factors contributing to this surge can help us be more aware and cautious during the twilight hours. By taking preventive measures and adjusting our driving habits, we can navigate this time shift safely and keep our roads accident-free.
How to Contact a Quad Cities Car Crash Lawyer
The team at Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham hopes that you enjoy the extra hour of sleep that comes with the start of standard time on Sunday, November 5th at 2:00 a.m. We also hope that the information in this blog helps you avoid getting hurt in a Quad Cities standard time crash. That said, accidents can happen at any time and through no fault of your own.
If you or your loved one has sustained injuries in a traffic accident, contact Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our team can be reached by phone at (309) 794-1515 , as well as via online LiveChat or web form.
For over six decades, Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham have effectively assisted injury victims in the Quad Cities region. Our legal team has provided representation to clients spanning Rock Island, Henry, Mercer, Whiteside, and Knox counties in Illinois, as well as Scott, Clinton, Muscatine, Cedar, and Jackson counties in Iowa. Contact us today to experience firsthand why we stand as the foremost personal injury law firm in the Quad Cities.