ODOT daylight saving time reminder: Get rested, be seen

Daylight saving time ends on the first Sunday in November – this Sunday, Nov. 5 – when clocks are moved back an hour at 2 a.m. local time (so they will then read 1 a.m. local standard time). What does this mean for travelers? It means potential disruption to sleep patterns which can result in drowsy, inattentive driving.

Just last year in Oregon, 15 people died in crashes involving drowsy driving, up from nine in 2015, a 67 percent increase.

It’s likely that number is even higher, as officials often don’t know if drowsy driving contributed to a crash. Over the past five years in the state, 51 people died in crashes where drowsy driving was a factor: most likely, those crashes could have been avoided.

Be rested. Be seen. Be safe.

Drivers must use extra vigilance this time of year not only to avoid driving drowsy but to watch out for others because our days are shorter – people on bikes and on foot will be traveling in dusk and darkness, both in the mornings and evenings. Stormy weather is coming as well, which can obscure a driver’s vision.

TIP: Drivers should allow plenty of time to get where they need to go, so they aren’t in a hurry, and be prepared to slow down.

TIP: Pedestrians and bicyclists should wear bright and/or reflective clothing, use reflective gear and lights, and watch out for drivers who may not see you.