A majority of Americans observe Daylight Savings Time (DST) from March to November. Yet, according to a recent Gallup poll, more than half of American adults prefer standard time year round, and for good reason.
Switching from standard time to DST, and back again, consistently disrupts a person’s circadian rhythm.
The circadian rhythm is essential to your health. It is your body’s internal clock, and it’s easily influenced by physical and mental health, as well as your environment. No matter how much you brag about your adaptability to your coworkers… It can take up to seven days for your body to recover from the time change.
More importantly, you are much more vulnerable to accidents while in this sensitive state.
Common Risks Associated with Standard Daylight Time
While your body adjusts to your new routine, you may experience fatigue, irritability, headaches, and impaired cognitive functioning. These side effects can negatively affect decision making and reaction times. As a result, motor vehicle accidents and workplace injuries tend to increase after switching back to standard time.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
According to a 2022 study, the time change to Standard Daylight Time increased overall vehicle accidents by 6% in four weeks. But nighttime accidents increased by 28%. Here are recommended tips to stay safe on the road, especially at night.
- Whether you are a pedestrian, bicyclist, or driver, stay alert. Earlier sunsets and increased darkness decrease visibility. As a result, fatal motor vehicle accidents spike, especially among pedestrians and bicyclists.
- If you do have to use a bike lane or sidewalk, invest in fluorescent wear or headlamps to be more visible to drivers.
- Watch for deer. Their activity increases in the fall due to mating season. If you do hit a deer, pull over and stay in the car if the animal is alive. Call the police. If it is safe to leave your vehicle, document the scene and any vehicle damage for your insurance company.
Workplace Injuries
When discussing workplace injuries, the numbers speak for themselves. The Department of Labor assessed injury data from 1983 to 2006. Researchers discovered that workplace injuries increase by 5.7% after the time change. Another study revealed that employers tend to experience an increase in workplace injuries the Monday after the time change.
These are some of the most common situations attributed to switching between standard time and daylight savings time.
- Transportation accidents can occur more often, especially with decreased reaction times. With a disrupted circadian rhythm, operating a forklift can be just as dangerous as a car.
- Construction is already a high-risk career. Add an interrupted internal clock, and construction accidents spike.
If you do experience a workplace injury, reach out to our experienced attorneys. Our empathetic and strategic approach to the law has recovered over $2 billion for more than 250,000 clients nationwide. Your first consultation is always free.
Time Change Safety Tips
Numerous factors affect how your body adjusts to the time change, like your age and daily habits. According to the Sleep Foundation, there are steps you can take to prepare your body. This advice is also great for travelling to a different timezone.
- Sleep well the night before.
- Prioritize exposure to sunshine.
- Eat a balanced diet for proper nutrition.
- Consider your caffeine intake.
- Try to shape your routine around the new time beforehand.
