Last weekend we turned the clocks back an hour and returned to Standard Time. While we gain an extra of sleep, we lose an hour of daylight. This early onset of nightfall actually creates more danger for pedestrians. Toronto Police Constable Hugh Smith from Toronto Traffic Services told 680News that “This is a dangerous time for pedestrians”.
With less hours of daylight, an increase in motor vehicle pedestrian accidents occurs, as many police officers report.
U.S. Researchers have shown that there is an increase in pedestrian related deaths during the dinner time rush hour in November as we adjust to the earlier darkness.
Pedestrians should make themselves visible to motorists and should be sure to cross at crosswalks and intersections, with the traffic lights.
Another factor that contributes to an increase in motor vehicle accidents is an increase in driver fatigue. As it gets darker earlier, motorists should pay attention to signs of fatigue and avoid driving while drowsy.
How many people do you know that can say they actually get a good night’s sleep during a weekday?
According to the National Sleep Foundation’s 2011 Sleep in America Poll, 43% of Americans aged 13-64 say they rarely or never sleep well on a weeknight. Two out of five drivers admit to falling asleep behind the wheel, with one in ten stating it has happened to them over the past year.
Drowsy driving is every bit as deadly impaired driving.
Aaron Waxman & Associates is a personal injury law firm in Toronto that specializes in car accidents, pedestrian accidents and disability claims.
Tags: car accident claims, personal injury lawyer toronto, toronto personal injury lawyer, useful tips