Daylight saving time has come to an end in Louisiana and across the United States. While turning the clock back means people can spend an extra hour in bed, studies show that any disruption to sleep patterns can lead to an increase in traffic accidents.
For example, a report by the Insurance Bureau of British Columbia found that late afternoon car crashes tend to increase in the two weeks following the end of daylight saving time. This might be because drivers have their regular sleep habits interrupted by the time change, causing them to feel drowsy behind the wheel. The National Sleep Foundation reports that around 6,400 people are killed and 50,000 are injured in drowsy driving collisions each year. To reduce the risk of such accidents, experts recommend that drivers ensure they get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel.
Meanwhile, days are also shorter after the clocks are turned back, meaning drivers spend more time commuting in the dark. This can increase the risk of drivers hitting pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists. In order to boost visibility, safety experts urge drivers to regularly clean their windshields and headlights. They are also encouraged to keep their speed down, turn on their headlights at dawn and dusk and remember to give pedestrians the right of way.
Louisiana residents who are injured in auto accidents might be entitled to compensation for their losses. By working with an attorney, it may be possible to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver who caused the crash. If this action is successful, the injured victim might be awarded a financial settlement for certain damages, including medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, pain and suffering, lost income and property loss. A lawyer may review a victim’s case and recommend the best legal remedy available.