AAA gives Daylight Savings driver/pedestrian tips

Americans will soon “Fall Back” and set their clocks back one hour when Daylight Saving Time ends at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 2.
Though the extra sleep may be welcomed, motorists and pedestrians need to be alert come Monday, as it also means most evening commutes will now take place without any daylight.
“Most people are aware of the extra hour of sleep we will enjoy, but not the effect the time change has on our daily routines,” said Tony Spada, President and CEO of AAA Western and Central New York. “Drivers will not only soon face darker conditions on the commute home, but also may experience drowsy driving due to sleep patterns being disrupted.”
AAA advises motorists and pedestrians to consider the following tips:
AAA Tips for Motorists
· Turn on your headlights. Make yourself more visible during early morning and evening hours.
· Watch out for pedestrians when backing up in parking lots or driveways.
· Keep vehicle headlights and windows (inside and out) clean.
· Do not use high beams when other cars or pedestrians are around.
· Remember to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks.
· Pay attention and eliminate distractions including cell phones and car clocks that are off an hour!
AAA Tips for Pedestrians
· Seek routes with sidewalks and crosswalks. If you have to walk on a road without sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
· If a crosswalk is unavailable, locate the brightest spot on the road to cross and wait for a long enough gap in traffic to make it safely across the street.
· Put down your phone. Smartphones and electronic devices take your eyes off the road and distract your attention.
· Don’t wear headphones. Your ears will tell you a lot about what is happening around you – be sure to use them.
· Never assume a driver will give you the right of way. Make every effort to make eye contact with the driver of a stopped or approaching vehicle before entering the roadway.
· Do not let umbrellas or jacket hoods block your view of approaching traffic.
· See and be seen. Carry a flashlight and wear reflective clothing and/or accessories.