On November 3, Daylight Saving Time officially comes to an end. For many of us, this will prove disruptive to our sleep schedule and may lead to some tough adjustments. Indeed, many adults find themselves feeling groggy and fatigued for a week or two following the time change.
The end of Daylight Saving Time can seem frustrating, but it can also be hazardous if you’re not paying attention — especially once you get behind the wheel of a car. Driving while drowsy can put you at heightened risk for accident and injury.
Fortunately, there are some basic precautions you can take to ensure you’re sufficiently alert, even as your body and mind get used to an adjusted sleep schedule.
Driving Tips for the End of Daylight Savings Time
Plan ahead
One thing you can do is give your body a little bit of time to make the adjustment. You might try altering your bedtime by half an hour or so each night for about a week leading up to November 3, making the transition a little less disruptive.
Avoid medications that leave you groggy
It’s hard enough to stay alert when it’s darker outside and your body feels sleep deprived. Adding sleep-inducing medications to the mix is a recipe for disaster. The same, as always, goes for alcohol.
Stay vigilant
Remember that you’re not the only person on the road. There will be other drivers just as sleepy as you, and in more rural areas, you may even run into some deer or other wildlife. It’s critically important to keep devices and other distractions at bay, and to ensure both eyes are on the road at all times.
Develop good habits
If you need to go to bed an hour earlier or put your devices away to allow your mind time to shut down before sleep, do so. Likewise, if you need to get up a little earlier to drink a cup of coffee or find time for some invigorating exercise before you get behind the wheel, do that, too.
Use your headlights earlier and more often
You’ll likely notice that your commutes are dimmer than they have been over the past several months. Don’t be afraid to use your headlights liberally. Doing so will drastically increase your visibility during shorter days.
Stay Safe on the Road in Goldsboro, NC
By following these driving tips, you’re doing your best to stay safe during a tough time of the year. Please put safety first and keep your wits about you as you hit the road post-DST.
And if you want to celebrate the changing leaves by changing your everyday drive, visit our used car dealership.
