Vancouver, British Columbia – The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) is reminding drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to take extra care next week due to the grogginess some people may feel as the clocks move ahead for daylight savings time.

The time change can have a significant effect on sleep patterns, while an increase in daylight and warmer temperatures also means more pedestrians and cyclists on the road. Crash statistics illustrate a higher driving risk on the first work day following the time change, with an average increase of 23 per cent in crash incidents from the Monday before the time change to the Monday following.

ICBC offers the following tips to help deal with the change:

- Get some rest by going to bed earlier. Exercising during the day, a hot bath or shower before bed, and warm milk and a book before bedtime help many to fall asleep sooner.

- Give yourself extra time to drive to and from work during the next week.

- Slow down and keep your distance.

- Use your headlights at all times to ensure you are visible to pedestrians and other road users. Make sure the lights are clean and that all bulbs are working properly.

- Set an example to your children, passengers and other road users by making smart driving decisions.

Related posts:

  1. ICBC offers tips for safe cellphone use in cars
  2. ICBC marks 20 years of road safety
  3. ICBC sends message about drinking and driving
  4. BCAA offers tips for winter driving
  5. Don’t rush through intersections: ICBC