Daylight Savings Time, More Accidents Expected

Written by The Clean Air Campaign

Many are looking forward to an extra hour in bed as Daylight Savings Time ends on Sunday, but they may not appreciate it on the dark ride home on Monday. Statistics show a dramatic increase in the number of car accidents in the days following the end of Daylight Savings Time. In fact, according to a five-year study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 900 fatal crashes nationwide could be prevented if Daylight Saving Time was year-round.

While a cup of coffee or an energy drink might help you perk up before getting behind the wheel, that is just a temporary solution. The Clean Air Campaign, which offers commuters cash and prizes through its Commuter Rewards program, suggests the following permanent solutions:

• Carpooling: Share the ride – you have a buddy to keep you awake, plus you are helping to keep pollutants out of our air and reduce traffic.
• Vanpooling: Even more friends to hang out with. Plus, vanpoolers save money on gas and car expenses and can keep 10 cars off the road every day.
• Transit: Avoid driving altogether. Using transit for part or all of your commute also means you're reducing air pollution and traffic.
• Telework: Enjoy some extra sleep and avoid traffic altogether by working from home. Teleworkers are proven to be 10-20 percent more productive than their in-office counterparts.
• Bike or Walk: A brisk bike ride or walk is sure to get the blood flowing. Plus, it's a healthy option.
• Rearranging your work schedule: Instead of changing how you get to work, you might try adjusting when you get there. By driving at off-peak times, you can arrive at work a little earlier and leave a little later, avoiding the dark commute home and sitting in traffic.