MDOT: Drivers Need To Be Alert As State 'Falls Back' An Hour

MICHIGAN — The Michigan Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to be alert Sunday, when clocks fall back an hour due to Daylight Saving Time.

Research from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute shows that pedestrians are more at risk of serious injury from a motor vehicle crashes in the weeks following a return to standard time, according to a news release issued by MDOT. The most dangerous time is the first hour of darkness.

"Drivers need to realize that after the time change it may be more challenging to see people walking, running, or bicycling as they will be much less noticeable," said Michigan Transportation Director Paul C. Ajegba. "To ensure visibility, pedestrians, joggers, and bicyclists are encouraged to wear brighter-colored clothing with reflective material. Drivers need to eliminate distractions, slow down, and focus fully on the task of driving."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic crashes in 2018 resulted in the deaths of 6,283 pedestrians and 857 pedal cyclists. Such crashes increased by 3.4 percent and 6.3 percent, respectively, from the previous year, according to the state. MDOT said that 76 percent of pedestrian deaths and 50 percent of pedal cyclist deaths took place during dark conditions, between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m.

MDOT continues to work with partners statewide on the Toward Zero Deaths safety campaign based on the National Strategy on Highway Safety, which the department said is intended to influence driver behavior and improve safety.