Fall and the end of daylight savings time is upon us once again. As the clocks are turned back an hour, you can expect your normal sleeping patterns to be disrupted for about a week before they return to normal, as the amount of sunlight in a day is less. Driving to work or around town could be just that much more challenging. Here are some safety tips to consider as we roll through the last few months of the year.
1. Have Your Headlights Adjusted
During the darker hours of the evening, full and proper illumination of the road is key to safe driving. If you can’t see more than 20 to 30 feet ahead, road signs do not appear bright, or the lighting from your headlights looks uneven, it is time to get them checked. Over time, the vibrations of the road and changes in the suspension system can cause headlights to shift. A mechanic can easily and quickly adjust your lights as part of yearly maintenance.
2. Look Out for Animals
When the time changes, many of us drive at dusk or dawn. These are the most active times for animals like raccoons, foxes, rabbits, and deer to forage or hunt when they are more likely to cross busy roads. Using your high beams is advised, as the light will reflect in the retinas of the animals, allowing you to spot their glowing eyes in the dark. Be alert to animal crossing signs and proceed with heightened caution through wooded areas. If you see an animal on the road, do not swerve, or you risk a collision with oncoming traffic. Come to a controlled stop or use your horn to frighten the creature off the road.
3. Avoid Looking at Bright Headlights
Avoid staring directly into bright lights while you are driving. Doing so can cause temporary “flash blindness,” making it difficult to see the road for approximately 30 seconds until your eyes readjust to the dark environment. Flash blindness is particularly dangerous on freeways or high-speed roads. Instead, focus your eyes on the road and slightly avert your gaze if you encounter an approaching vehicle driving with high beams.
4. Clean Your Windshield Well
A clear windshield is imperative to prevent glare and difficulty seeing while driving. A simple, cost-effective solution is to use a small amount of dish soap and warm water with a microfiber cloth to wipe away any film, dirt, or grime. Afterward, use a dry microfiber cloth in a circular motion to remove all moisture or streaks from your windshield surface. Be sure the inside of your windshield is also clean.
5. Get Your Tires Checked
If you experience rain, snow, or a dramatic temperature drop during the late fall and winter, getting your tires checked and rotated can ensure they continue to get traction on the road. A good tire grip keeps you safe from sliding and swerving. As the thermometer drops, so does your tire pressure. Also, ensure your tires are inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid braking and vehicle handling issues.
Safe Driving Brings You Long-Term Benefits
By following these driving tips around daylight savings time, you not only keep yourself and your passengers safe, but you could also save money on car insurance. Lower premiums are often available to people with good driving habits or who go for years without an accident. At any time of year, having the right auto and personal insurance policies will ensure you are covered if something goes wrong. Contact our local insurance agent for guidance on affordable personal insurance.