Georgia DOT: stay alert during DST- time change leads to more crashes and road fatalities

ATLANTA, GA – As Georgians prepare for daylight savings when time springs forward on Sunday, March 9, the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) urges drivers and pedestrians to be cautious on the roads and in crosswalks. A University of Colorado Boulder study has linked the time change to an increase in accidents and fatalities due to sleep deprivation and reduced visibility in the morning. 

The shift in time can cause a disrupted sleep schedule, leading to driving while drowsy, slower reaction times, and decreased awareness behind the wheel. Studies show that losing just one hour of sleep can significantly impact focus and decision-making, making early morning and late-night driving more dangerous for drivers and pedestrians.

Another factor is the sun comes out later in the morning, reducing the visibility of the roads and the ability to see pedestrians walking, jogging, or biking in residential and public areas of the road, including crosswalks and school zones.  

The impact of sleepiness and reduced visibility due to daylight savings should be taken serious because according to estimates by Governor’s Highway Safety Association, deaths of people on foot have risen at a pace nearly seven times higher than U.S. population growth (7%). Specifically, in Georgia:

• Over the past ten years, pedestrian deaths in Georgia have increased by more than 50%.
• Between 2007 and 2024, 3,943 people were killed while walking in Georgia.
  • Over 80% of pedestrian fatalities happen outside a crosswalk.
• Between 2014 and 2023, 44% of pedestrian fatalities in Georgia were a result of a confirmed or suspected distracted driver.
• 9 out of 10 pedestrians struck by a vehicle going 40mph die. 

In an effort to keep Georgians safe and minimize crashes, Georgia DOT is advising both motorists and pedestrians to do the following:

• Get enough sleep before and the night of daylight savings to minimize sleepiness.
• Use extra caution in the morning, especially in school zones and heavy pedestrian areas.
• Avoid distractions such as being on your phone, especially at intersections.
• Plan ahead to avoid rushing to your destination while driving.
• Pedestrians stay visible, use crosswalks, and be mindful of your surroundings.

Georgia DOT is doing its part to keep everyone safe by continuing to improve roads and pedestrian facilities including crosswalks. Residents can also learn more about staying safe through Georgia DOT’s Drive Alert Arrive Alive initiative, the See & Be Seen campaign as well as Keep Georgia Safe a safety education program for students in grades K-12.

Georgia Department of Transportation plans, constructs and maintains Georgia’s state and federal highways. We’re involved in bridge, waterway, public transit, rail, general aviation, bike and pedestrian programs. And we help local governments maintain their roads. Georgia DOT and its nearly 4,000 employees are committed to delivering a transportation system focused on innovation, safety, sustainability, and mobility. The Department’s vision is to boost Georgia’s competitiveness through leadership in transportation.