Time shifts can result in dangerous driving conditions

The first weekend of November means that clocks will be turned back one hour in most parts of the country. While Tennessee residents may enjoy getting an extra hour of sleep, the change may have negative consequences as well. For instance, it could have an impact on a person’s internal body clock, which could lead to an increased risk of drowsy driving. According to the National Sleep Foundation, there are 6,400 deaths caused each year by tired drivers.

A survey from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that most respondents saw tired or drowsy driving as dangerous. However, 27% said that they had driven when fatigue made it difficult to keep their eyes open. Those who study the issue of sleep deprivation say that individuals should go to bed at the same hour that they normally would on the night of the time shift.

This may make it easier to maintain a consistent sleep pattern while adjusting to the change. Fatigued driving is not the only danger drivers face during the late fall. Shorter days may mean that they are driving to and from work while it is dark outside. In addition, motor vehicle operators will still need to be aware of pedestrians, children coming home from school and other risks roadways may normally pose.

Those who have been involved in a car accident that has been caused by a drowsy or otherwise negligent driver often require lengthy periods of expensive medical care and treatment, and some are unable to return to work for prolonged periods. Victims might want to have the help of an attorney when seeking compensation for these and other losses.