In just a few days, the clocks will be "falling back" to Standard Time. For most people, that means an extra hour of sleep—a rare treat in our busy lives. But before you cozy up for that bonus rest, it's worth taking a moment to think about what the end of Daylight Saving Time (DST) really means for your safety on the road. Every year, when we shift the clocks back, there's a noticeable spike in car accidents and pedestrian injuries. As any car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN will tell you, this simple change in time can lead to serious consequences for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

What Is Daylight Saving Time?

Daylight Saving Time is the practice of moving clocks forward by one hour in the spring and back by one hour in the fall. The idea, which dates back to the early 20th century, was to make better use of natural daylight. By extending daylight hours into the evening, people could enjoy more sunlight after work and theoretically reduce energy use.

In the United States, DST begins in March and ends in November. When we "spring forward," we lose an hour of sleep but gain more daylight in the evenings. When we "fall back," we gain an hour of sleep but lose evening sunlight. While that extra sleep might sound appealing, the transition can have some unintended and dangerous effects on our sleep cycles, alertness, and safety—especially on the road. That means you may find yourself in need of a car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN.

The Risks of Returning to Standard Time

The days following the switch back to Standard Time are some of the most hazardous times of the year for drivers and pedestrians. Studies show that between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.—the busiest hours for evening commutes—pedestrian injuries spike dramatically once the clocks are turned back. In fact, pedestrian injury rates tend to drop by around 6% in the month leading up to the time change. However, after the switch, those injuries can increase by nearly 19% between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Research also indicates that car accidents between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. can double after the return to Standard Time.

For anyone driving home from work or running evening errands in the Knoxville area, this change can be especially concerning. Traffic around Kingston Pike, Broadway, and I-40 tends to increase during these hours—and when you combine that congestion with earlier darkness, the result is a higher risk of crashes that could leave you seeking a consultation with a car accident injury lawyer in Knoxville, TN.

Why Do Accidents Increase After the Time Change?

There are several reasons why the end of Daylight Saving Time leads to more accidents—and most have to do with how humans adapt (or fail to adapt) to changes in light and sleep patterns.

  1. Reduced Visibility: Once clocks fall back, sunset occurs an hour earlier. That means the evening commute happens mostly in darkness. Pedestrians and cyclists become harder to see, particularly if they wear dark clothing. Street lighting can help, but it doesn't eliminate the problem—especially on rural roads or dimly lit streets.
  2. Disrupted Sleep and Fatigue: While gaining an hour might sound like a good thing, the body's internal clock doesn't reset instantly. Many people experience a disruption in their circadian rhythm, leading to fatigue, irritability, and slower reaction times. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, and it often contributes to post–time change crashes.
  3. Driver Inattention: The adjustment period after a time change can also impact focus. Commuters may be more distracted or less alert during their drives, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions, lane departures, and pedestrian strikes.
  4. Weather and Glare: Fall in East Tennessee often brings cloudy days, rain, and glare from the low-setting sun. These conditions, combined with earlier darkness, can make it even more challenging for drivers to spot hazards in time.

Tips to Stay Safe on the Roads

A few simple precautions can make a big difference in reducing your risk during this seasonal transition:

  • Adjust Your Schedule: Give yourself a few days to adapt to the new time. Go to bed and wake up at consistent hours to help your body's clock stabilize.
  • Slow Down and Stay Alert: Reduced light means reduced visibility. Take your time and pay attention, especially in residential or high-pedestrian areas.
  • Use Your Headlights Wisely: Turn on headlights earlier in the evening to ensure you can see—and be seen—by others.
  • Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Many people continue walking or biking after dark without reflective gear. Be vigilant at crosswalks and intersections.
  • Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away and stay focused on the road. Even a quick glance away can be catastrophic when visibility is low.
  • Maintain Your Vehicle: Clean windshields, working headlights, and properly inflated tires can all make a big difference in safety.

When an Accident Happens

Even when you do everything right, accidents can still happen—especially during the days following the time change. If you or a loved one is injured in a collision caused by another driver's negligence, it's essential to contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN as soon as possible.

A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but with the help of a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN, you can level the playing field and protect your interests.

Whether the crash involves a pedestrian, cyclist, or another vehicle, a car accident lawyer in Knoxville who is familiar with local roads, traffic patterns, and courts can offer valuable insight. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies while you focus on recovery.

While "falling back" to Standard Time gives us an extra hour of rest, it also brings new challenges for drivers and pedestrians. The daylight shift can lead to more dangerous commutes, especially during those critical evening hours. Staying alert, adjusting your habits, and understanding the risks can help keep you safe.

If you do find yourself involved in a collision, don't wait to seek help from a trusted car accident lawyer in Knoxville, TN. With professional guidance, you can navigate the aftermath of an accident and secure the support you need to move forward.

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Butler, Vines and Babb is a leading law firm in Knoxville, TN, with extensive litigation experience in Medical Malpractice Law Birth Injury Law, Trucking Accident Law, Personal Injury Law, and Business Law. Contact us today at www.bvblaw.com or call 865-637-3531.

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