Ah, yes! It’s that time of year again to spring forward! Daylight saving time is arriving, and we get to enjoy those longer, brighter evenings. But while it’s a fun change for many, it can be a little tricky for some, especially if you’re recovering from a motor vehicle crash. As we approach the time change and the clocks move forward, signaling the arrival of longer daylight hours, it’s important to adjust not only our routines but also our driving habits especially when we are in the process of recovering from a motor vehicle crash. The transition can have various effects on your energy levels, focus, and overall alertness on the road. Here are some essential road safety tips to help you stay safe especially as we shift into daylight savings time.
Give Yourself Time to Adjust to the Time Change
The shift in daylight hours can disrupt your body’s natural rhythm in the spring. You may feel more fatigued or less alert than usual, which can impact your concentration and reaction time behind the wheel. If you are still in recovery, this could be even more significant. Start adjusting your sleep schedule gradually before the clocks change. This will help your body adapt more easily.
Know Your Limitations and Avoid Driving When Tired
Let’s be honest. Recovering from an MVC can be exhausting. If you are feeling fatigued or have trouble concentrating, it’s better to avoid driving. Do not risk your safety or that of others on the road. Although it may not be easy, try to arrange for rides from friends, family, or use public transportation if needed.
Give Yourself Extra Time for Your Recovery
If you’re still healing from injuries, it may take more time to get in and out of your car or to drive long distances. Additionally, you might experience discomfort while driving or have reduced mobility. Plan extra time for your trips. If you need to make stops for rest or medication, allow yourself enough time to do so without feeling rushed.
Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions
The transition into longer spring days may lead to more distractions (e.g., new routes, scenic views). Even though it’s easier to drive in daylight, distractions can still increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle crash. Every driver should keep their phone out of reach, avoid eating or drinking while driving, and stay focused on the road at all times.
Check Your Vehicle for Safety
After a motor vehicle crash, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Tires, brakes, lights, and mirrors are all crucial for ensuring a safe drive, especially as you transition into the longer hours of daylight when more drivers are on the road. Perform a pre-drive check, or take your car to a mechanic to make sure everything is in working order.
Consider the Weather and Road Conditions
Daylight savings may bring more sunshine, but it can also create glare and shadow patterns that make visibility trickier at different times of the day. Make sure to keep your windshield clean and be cautious of changing weather conditions, especially during the transition into spring. Keep sunglasses in your car to combat glare, and adjust your driving speed according to the weather conditions. Always keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
If you’re recovering from a crash, it’s vital to listen to your doctor’s instructions regarding when and how much you should be driving. It’s important not to push your limits before you’re physically ready. Always follow your recovery plan and consult your doctor before driving long distances or if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort.
Stay Calm and Alert
Recovering from a motor vehicle crash can be an emotional experience. If you’re still processing trauma from the incident, it’s important to stay calm and focused while driving, and take your time getting back behind the wheel. Stress can increase your chances of making mistakes on the road. Avoid driving in heavy traffic or on unfamiliar roads until you feel more confident.
Consider Driving During Off-Peak Hours
With the time change into spring, there may be a shift in traffic patterns. You might experience more congestion during rush hours, especially as daylight hours increase. If you’re not feeling fully recovered or just want to avoid the stress of heavy traffic, consider adjusting your travel times. Whenever possible, drive during non-peak hours to reduce the chances of stress or fatigue while driving.
Be Extra Cautious Around Other Drivers
Not all drivers will adjust to the time change. The longer daylight hours may cause drivers to become more distracted or less cautious, so always stay alert and aware of other vehicles around you. Maintain a safe following distance, use your turn signals, and be extra cautious at intersections. Always remember that spring can be tricky—sometimes it teases us with warmer weather, but snow can still sneak up on us. As the clocks move forward and you continue your recovery, it’s essential to remain patient with yourself and make adjustments to your driving habits. Take extra care in getting enough rest, listen to your body, and follow the advice of your healthcare provider. Your safety is the priority, so do not rush your recovery and remember that it’s okay to take it slow.
By following these road safety tips, you’ll ensure that you’re ready to hit the road again while minimizing risks and focusing on your recovery. Stay safe, stay alert, and drive with caution!
S. Dawne McKay is a survivor of a horrific crash that changed her life forever. Dawne shares her personal journey as a Crash Survivor Blogger and also collaborates with crash survivors as Guest Bloggers allowing them an opportunity to share their stories. Dawne is also the author of the book, “Talk Crash to Me – What to Expect After Surviving a Collision and How to Manage Your Recovery” which is available for purchase on Amazon.
The Crash Support Network is a unique one-of-a-kind website consisting of an online support group, a crash survivor blog, a quarterly newsletter, “Sharing Our Recovery” as well as highly informative articles. Our website is based on relationship-building and puts the needs of survivors first by creating a helpful resource for victims and survivors of motor vehicle crashes
