Michael Pines | April 20, 2026 | Car Accidents
Every spring, millions of Americans lose an hour of sleep when clocks “spring forward” for Daylight Saving Time (DST). While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, research shows this time change can have serious – and sometimes deadly – consequences on the road.
In fact, studies have found that the spring DST shift is linked to a measurable increase in fatal car accidents, particularly in the days immediately following the change.
The Data: A Spike in Fatal Accidents
Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that:
- There is approximately a 6% increase in fatal car accidents during the workweek following the spring time change
- This translates to about 28 additional deaths annually in the U.S. The increase is most noticeable during morning commutes
This makes the “spring forward” shift one of the few predictable, nationwide events linked to a short-term rise in traffic fatalities.
Why Does “Spring Forward” Increase Accident Risk?
The main culprit is sleep disruption – but the effects go deeper than just feeling tired.
Sleep Deprivation
Losing even one hour of sleep can:
- Reduce alertness
- Slow reaction times
- Impair decision-making
Drivers operating on less sleep are more likely to:
- Miss hazards
- Drift between lanes
- React too slowly to sudden changes
Disrupted Circadian Rhythms
Your body runs on an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep and wake cycles.
When DST begins:
- Your body doesn’t instantly adjust
- You may feel groggy or unfocused for several days
- Peak alertness times shift, increasing risk during typical driving hours
Darker Morning Commutes
After the spring time change:
- Sunrise occurs later
- More people drive to work or school in darker conditions
Reduced visibility combined with fatigue creates a dangerous combination, especially for:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Early-morning commuters
Increased Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is often compared to driving under the influence. During the DST transition:
- More drivers are sleep-deprived
- Microsleeps (brief lapses in attention) become more common
- Crash risk increases significantly
Who Is Most at Risk?
While the DST shift affects everyone, certain groups face higher risks:
- Commuters driving early in the morning
- Shift workers with already irregular sleep schedules
- Parents and students adjusting to new routines
- Commercial drivers spending extended time on the road
Even a small decrease in alertness can have serious consequences at highway speeds.
How Long Does the Risk Last?
The increased crash risk is most pronounced:
- During the first week after the time change
- Particularly on Monday through Friday mornings
However, some studies suggest lingering effects can last longer as people gradually adjust their sleep schedules.
Real-World Implications for Drivers
The DST-related spike in accidents highlights an important truth: Even minor disruptions to sleep and routine can significantly impact driving safety.
This is especially relevant in personal injury cases, where factors like:
- Driver fatigue
- Reduced visibility
- Delayed reaction times
may all contribute to liability.
Tips to Stay Safe After the Time Change
To reduce your risk during the “spring forward” transition:
- Go to bed earlier in the days leading up to DST
- Avoid caffeine and screens before bedtime
- Allow extra time for your morning commute
- Stay extra alert at intersections and crosswalks
- Avoid driving if you feel excessively drowsy
Small adjustments can help offset the effects of lost sleep.
What This Means for Personal Injury Claims
If you’re involved in an accident during the DST transition, timing can be a relevant factor.
While the time change itself doesn’t determine fault, it may:
- Help explain driver behavior (e.g., fatigue or delayed reaction)
- Provide context for accident patterns
- Support expert testimony in certain cases
Understanding these factors can be important when building a claim.
A Preventable Risk
The “spring forward” time change is a routine event – but its impact on road safety is anything but routine. With a documented increase in fatal crashes, it serves as a reminder of how critical sleep, visibility, and alertness are to safe driving.
Being aware of these risks – and taking proactive steps – can help prevent accidents during this vulnerable time of year.
Injured in a Car Accident? We Can Help.
At Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the many factors that can contribute to serious car accidents – including fatigue and environmental conditions like Daylight Saving Time.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, contact us today for a free consultation. Our San Diego car accident injury lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
We proudly serve San Diego, San Diego County, and its surrounding areas:
Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
835 5th Avenue #302, San Diego, CA 92101
(858) 551-2090
Available 24/7
Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers – La Jolla Office
4660 La Jolla Village Dr. San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 585-9031
Available 24/7