On March 11, most communities in British Columbia switched to Daylight Saving Time and that means there some pretty drowsy drivers behind the wheel going to and from work for the next few days as they adjust to the time change.
Driver fatigue is a dangerous condition during which the symptoms of sleepiness can severely impair driving performance. Studies show our circadian rhythms, or body clocks, don’t adjust to time changes naturally.
A tired driver is a dangerous driver.
Sleep deprivation impairs brain function as much as alcohol does, reducing the ability of the mind and body to respond quickly and accurately. This impairment can affect our driving ability long before we even notice we’re getting tired.
Symptoms of driver fatigue can range from heavy eyelids, frequent yawning and feeling irritable to misjudging traffic situations, being surprised by a pedestrian or cyclist and allowing our vehicles to wander or drift across the line.
The BCAA Road Safety Foundation recommends drivers do the following:
• Adjust sleep patterns before the time change.
• Avoid caffeine or other substances to “wake us up.”
• Drive with our headlights on during the darker morning commute.
• Be aware of the increased number of people out walking in the evenings taking advantage of the extra daylight, especially in residential areas.