Why Do New York City Car Crashes Spike After Daylight Saving Time Ends?

Every November, New Yorkers turn their clocks back an hour as daylight saving time ends. While it may seem like a little seasonal adjustment, the repercussions can be significant, particularly on the road. When dusk arrives an hour earlier, nighttime commutes that were once brightly lit are plunged into complete darkness. What was the result? A predictable spike in car crashes, pedestrian injuries, and cycling accidents across New York City.

This annual increase in collisions is so predictable that safety experts, transportation officials, and personal injury attorneys anticipate it every year. But why does this happen, and what can New Yorkers do to be safe as the clocks change?

Why Do New York City Car Crashes Spike After Daylight Saving Time Ends?

For starters, many people’s natural circadian rhythms require days or even weeks to adjust. This means individuals may feel drowsier, less awake, or slower to react, particularly during late-afternoon and early-evening commutes. Combine that exhaustion with darker streets, glare from headlights, and heavier traffic as everyone rushes home, and you’ve got a recipe for more accidents.

These risks are exacerbated by New York City’s congested traffic and high pedestrian activity. The problem isn’t just that it gets dark earlier; it’s that millions of people are suddenly experiencing the same symptoms.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Darkness Makes NYC Streets Dangerous

Multiple research and publications, including evaluations by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and local Vision Zero statistics, show that traffic crashes increase consistently in the days and weeks following the end of daylight saving time.

One important study discovered a 16% increase in fatal car accidents across the week following the fall time shift. In cities like New York, where pedestrians and cyclists share the road in large numbers, the risks are significantly higher.

According to the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), pedestrian fatalities regularly increase by more than 40% in the early evening hours following the time shift. Between November and March, more than half of all pedestrian deaths in New York City happen after dark.

The Real Culprit: Darkness + Human Behavior

The combination of shorter daylight hours and human adaptation issues creates a perfect storm. Here’s how:

• Reduced visibility: Drivers struggle to see pedestrians, cyclists, and obstacles, especially at intersections and crosswalks.
• Glare and shadow: The lower angle of the sun during dusk can create intense glare just before nightfall, then plunge drivers into sudden darkness.
• Fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns: Even gaining an hour can throw off sleep schedules, making people less alert on the road.
• Routine disruption: Due to the habitual nature of drivers and pedestrians, a sudden change in their familiar commute can slow down their reaction times.
• Overconfidence: Some drivers underestimate how much visibility has changed and fail to adjust their speed or caution level.

Together, these factors explain why early November is one of the most dangerous periods to be on the road in New York City.

The “Dusk and Darkness” Effect: NYC’s Annual Battle

The “Dusk and Darkness” safety campaign, launched by the NYC DOT as part of Vision Zero, focuses on this specific seasonal risk. Every fall, the campaign begins to remind New Yorkers that when daylight saving time ends, traffic deaths increase dramatically.

Despite continued public education and increased enforcement during this time, the data continues to indicate a consistent pattern: the first few weeks following the time change are particularly risky.

Many accidents happen between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., when commuters drive home, kids walk home from after-school activities, and bicycles share congested roadways. The earlier sunset not only limits visibility, but it also coincides with one of the busiest traffic periods of the day.

The “Dusk and Darkness” campaign stresses slower speeds, enhanced crosswalk awareness, and better illumination – all of which are basic steps that, when followed consistently, can save lives.

Who’s Most at Risk in New York City?

While everyone confronts higher risks after the time change, some groups are particularly susceptible on New York’s streets.

• Pedestrians: Especially seniors and children, who may misjudge crossing times or be less visible in low light.
• Cyclists: Even with reflective gear, bikers are harder to spot at dusk and are at greater risk from turning vehicles.
• Commuters: Many commuters and delivery workers endure extended hours on the road, leaving them vulnerable to fatigue and fluctuations in visibility.
• Rideshare and taxi drivers: Extended shifts during dark evening hours heighten accident risks.
• Newer drivers: Inexperienced motorists may not adapt quickly to reduced light and increased glare.

Unfortunately, in New York City, pedestrian and bike fatalities are disproportionately high throughout the fall and winter, a tendency that worsens with each November.

How to Stay Safe After the Time Change

The good news is that these seasonal spikes in crashes are absolutely preventable. Raising awareness, preparing, and making minor behavioral changes can significantly reduce risks.

For Drivers

• Slow down and increase following distance. Darkness makes it harder to judge distances and spot hazards.
• Use headlights early. Turn them on an hour before sunset to stay visible, even in twilight.
• Watch for pedestrians at crosswalks. Expect more people walking home in dark clothing.
• Avoid distractions. Phones, GPS devices, and in-car screens are even more dangerous when visibility is low.
• Be extra cautious around schools and bus stops. Children may still be outside after dark.
• Get enough sleep. Even a small change in circadian rhythm can lead to fatigue-related crashes.

For Pedestrians & Cyclists

• Wear reflective clothing or accessories. Bright or reflective materials make a huge difference in low light.
• Use bike lights and reflectors. New York law requires them from dusk to dawn—and they save lives.
• Cross at intersections and obey signals. Avoid jaywalking, especially in dim or unfamiliar lighting.
• Avoid distractions. Don’t use phones or headphones when crossing busy streets.
• Make eye contact with drivers. Never assume they can see you.

Minor changes in conduct and awareness can prevent fatal results in the weeks after the end of daylight saving time.

Injured After a Crash During the Time Change? Here’s What to Do

If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries in a car accident after the time change, you might be eligible for compensation. However, you must act quickly to protect your right to receive compensation. Here’s what to do immediately after a crash:

1. Get medical attention, even for minor injuries. Some symptoms take hours or days to appear.
2. Call the police and obtain an accident report.
3. Document the scene with photos, witness contacts, and notes.
4. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney.
5. Contact a personal injury lawyer who understands NYC traffic laws and can protect your rights.

A skilled legal team can handle the insurance process, gather evidence, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Every November, the Pattern Repeats, but It’s Preventable

Every year, as daylight saving time ends, New York City witnesses the same tragic pattern: more crashes, injuries, and deaths—all due to darker streets and disrupted routines.

But it does not have to be this way. New Yorkers may break the cycle by being attentive, cautious, and driving responsibly. Public safety initiatives like Vision Zero’s “Dusk and Darkness” serve as a reminder that we can prevent these crashes.

Contact Greenberg & Stein P.C. today for a free consultation if you’ve sustained injuries in a car, pedestrian, or cycling accident following the time change. Our experienced New York City personal injury attorneys will fight to protect your rights and help you recover the justice you deserve.