Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Release #16-027
March 13, 2016
Scott Gastel/Jose Bayona (212) 839-4850
NYC DOT Issues Alert to New Yorkers as Daylight Savings Arrives
DOT data show serious crashes have historically increased by 10 percent in week after clocks “spring forward”; Crashes have increased by 30 percent during morning hours
As part of Vision Zero, DOT will lead a social media effort to increase awareness of dangers of this week’s morning commute
Today, the Department of Transportation re-issued Mayor Bill de Blasio’s reminder about the arrival of daylight saving time this weekend. The resulting loss of sleep and a later sunrise require that everyone exercise extra care and caution, especially during the morning commute.
DOT analyzed crash data over five years (2010-2014), comparing the week before the daylight savings change to the week after the change. During that period, fatalities and injuries increased by 10 percent, and during morning hours (between 5 and 10am) the week-to-week increase in serious crashes was 30 percent.
On social media, DOT will offer tips for drivers this week, including admonitions to drive defensively, to be fully awake while driving and to expect the unexpected, especially during 6:00 am to 7:30 am, when mornings will be significantly darker than they were last week.
For more information about tips and links, please visit these NYC DOT’s social media channels:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYC_DOT
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NYCDOT
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nyc_dot/
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