On the night of October 30 to 31, we change the time. Conclusion: the hours of illumination are getting shorter. On the road, vigilance is required, especially since this change to winter time is generally accompanied by more complicated weather with fog, rain and snow.
The end of the time change, which should take effect in 2021, has been postponed with the Covid pandemic. This year again, so you have to think about moving your clock back one hour during the night of Saturday 30th to Sunday 31st October. Concretely at 3 a.m., it will be 2 a.m. A switch to winter time which is not without consequences on the road in particular.
More accidents at the end of the year
The decrease in light is leading to an increase in road accidents. Because night falls earlier and day breaks later, exactly at the peak hours of commuting. The populations most affected by this phenomenon are also the most vulnerable. These include pedestrians, toddlers and cyclists. ” Between 2015 and 2019, the number of pedestrian injuries in November is almost 11% higher than in October », Details the National Interministerial Road Safety Observatory (ONISR) in a report. It is at the end of the day (5-7 p.m.) that the number of accidents involving a pedestrian increases the most (+ 42%).
On average over the period 2015-2019, the winter months proved to be the most dangerous for pedestrians. ” The months of November, December and January represent 34% of fatal pedestrian accidents. Each year, an average of 166 pedestrians are killed from November to January », Details the ONISR which recalls that the 3th quarter has always been the deadliest over the period 2010-2019 (28% of annual mortality).
Remember to be seen!
The fall / winter season is also synonymous with fog, rain or snow. Factors that also impact the visibility of motorists. To avoid an accident, it is essential for everyone to see well and especially to be seen.
Pedestrians
- Cross over protected passages and check the environment before crossing
- Walk the sidewalks
- Wear bright clothes or equip yourself with retro-reflective accessories (armband, yellow vest, stickers on the bag, etc.)
Cyclists / Toddlers
- Wear (in addition to the helmet) retro-reflective or clear clothing (or accessories)
- Always check and turn on your lighting
Motorists / Mopeds
- Control your lighting
- Clean your windows / use water repellent on the visors
- Check the condition of your tires (they affect your safety and your consumption!)
- Adapt your speed and increase your vigilance.
The period is also conducive to the movement of game, be careful. If there is an animal on the side of the road, honk your horn to make it move away.
