AAA Warns of Dark Roads and Deer Danger – Carswellfamilyfoundation

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) – As Daylight Saving Time ends, drivers face new challenges with dark evening commutes and bright morning sunshine. Experts warn that the time change, although just an hour, can feel like “prolonged jet lag” for many.

Road safety experts say the shift disrupts our body clocks and affects concentration and alertness during peak driving times.

“Even though it’s an hour, it can make a big difference, especially on an evening commute suddenly in the dark,” says Morgan Dean, public and government affairs manager for AAA Mid-Atlantic.

Dean also notes that November is deer mating season, which increases the risk of accidents as more deer are active at dawn and dusk. This is a peak time for deer-related accidents, especially in Virginia, where “November is the busiest month for deer-related accidents.” Dean advises drivers to be especially vigilant when crossing deer during this time, especially around turns where visibility may be . be reduced.

Another risk is drowsiness while driving, especially if sleep patterns are disrupted due to changes in time. Dean also notes that just an hour or two of sleep deprivation can double a driver’s risk of an accident, comparable to drunk driving.

“People tend to downplay how harmful it is to drive when they’re sleepy,” Dean said. “Drivers should make sure they are well rested, and if fatigue sets in, it is best to stop and take a nap or drink some caffeine to continue driving safely.”