RALEIGH -- The state Department of Transportation is reminding motorists that daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday. The switch means the sun will set an hour earlier and leave less light for evening commuters.
According to NCDOT statistics, 1,082 pedestrians and bicyclists statewide were involved in vehicle crashes during dusk and nighttime hours last year. And 90 percent of the 19,683 animal-related crashes last year were caused by deer, with the largest percentage occurring between 6 and 10 p.m.
NCDOT recommends drivers follow these tips to make the roads safer:
- Check all vehicle lights to ensure they work properly. This includes headlights, parking lights, turn signals/emergency flashers, brake lights, tail and marker lights, interior lights and instrumentation lighting.
- Make sure your vehicle's headlights are on and aimed properly.
- Use the night setting on your rearview mirror to avoid glare from oncoming headlights.
- Switch your headlights from high beam to low beam as oncoming vehicles approach.
- Drive cautiously. Be alert and watchful for bicyclists and pedestrians on the roadside, as well as at crosswalks. They may not see or hear you.
