Daylight saving time changeover increases risk of accidents

This weekend it's that time again: the changeover to daylight saving time. In the night from Saturday to Sunday the clocks will be advanced one hour, from 2 o'clock to 3 o'clock.

Various studies observe that the number of accidents each increases after the time change - by as much as 30%. This may be due to overtiredness: The changeover upsets the sleep-wake rhythm, similar to a mini-jet lag. The body needs between four days and two weeks to get used to the new conditions. Therefore, increased caution is advised during this time. This is especially true during the changeover to daylight saving time, as an hour of sleep is missing.

Time change in installments

It can help to start the time change early: Starting today, go to bed a quarter of an hour earlier and get up a quarter of an hour earlier.

Anyone who has to drive should take a little more time in the morning to wake up before getting into the car. Coffee and tea can help, but so can morning exercises or alternating showers to get the circulation going. A few extra breaks are recommended for longer car journeys.

Caution, wild animals

Collisions with wild animals are an additional danger: Commuters are on the road an hour earlier - at dawn. At this time of day, wild animals are particularly active, so motorists should be especially careful on rural roads. If a deer or wild boar is in the roadway, traffic experts recommend slowing down, dimming your lights and honking your horn. Under no circumstances, however, should you swerve abruptly - otherwise there is a risk of an accident with another car.