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AAA has safety tips for drivers, pedestrians with Daylight Savings Time

Posted 4 November 2016 at 7:55 am
File photo by Tom Rivers: The four clock faces on the dominant church tower in Holley’s Public Square were fixed last year by Glenn Hughson, owner of the former United Methodist church building which is now used for apartments. Clocks will need to be turned back for Daylight’s Savings Time.

File photo by Tom Rivers: The four clock faces on the dominant church tower in Holley’s Public Square were fixed last year by Glenn Hughson, owner of the former United Methodist church building which is now used for apartments. Clocks will need to be turned back for Daylight’s Savings Time.

Press Release,  AAA Western and Central New York

With Daylight Saving Time ending Sunday, Nov. 6, at 2 a.m., Americans will “fall back” and set their clocks back one hour. While many motorists will enjoy an extra hour of sleep, they need to be aware of the time change and potential distractions to their normal routine. There are added dangers that can come as a result of a time change, especially when behind the wheel.

An earlier sunset and darkness can lead to an increase in the number of pedestrians killed or seriously injured by vehicles.

Therefore, drivers, pedestrians, joggers, walkers and bicyclists will need to use safety measures so they are seen on the roads. AAA advises motorists and pedestrians to remember the following tips to stay safe:

AAA Tips for Motorists

  • Always watch out for pedestrians when backing up in parking lots or driveways. Turn on your headlights to make yourself more visible.
  • Leave more following room. In the morning, when the sun is in your eyes it can be hard to see what the car ahead is doing. Use sunglasses and your sun visor.
  • Be mindful of children and others who are outdoors as it gets dark earlier.
  • Remember to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Do not pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks.
  • Pay attention and eliminate all distractions including cell phones and car clocks that are off an hour!

AAA Tips for Pedestrians

  • Cross only at intersections or crosswalks. Look left, right and left again and only cross when it is clear. Do not jaywalk or cross between parked cars.
  • Evaluate the distance and speed of oncoming traffic before you step out into the street.
  • Avoid walking in traffic where there are no sidewalks or crosswalks. If you have to walk on a road that does not have sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
  • See and be seen. Carry a flashlight and wear reflective clothing and/or accessories.
  • While walking, pocket the cell phone and avoid listening to your iPod or MP3 player at a volume that prohibits you from hearing approaching danger.