Peach Tree Times

As Georgians prepare for the upcoming daylight savings time on Sunday, March 9, the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) is urging drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution. The shift in time can lead to disrupted sleep schedules, resulting in drowsy driving, slower reaction times, and decreased awareness. According to a University of Colorado Boulder study, these factors have been linked to an increase in accidents and fatalities.

The time change also affects visibility in the morning as the sun rises later, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians in areas such as crosswalks and school zones. The Governor’s Highway Safety Association has reported that pedestrian deaths have increased at a rate nearly seven times higher than U.S. population growth. In Georgia specifically, pedestrian deaths have risen by more than 50% over the past decade.

To address these concerns, Georgia DOT advises motorists and pedestrians to get enough sleep before the time change, use extra caution in school zones and heavy pedestrian areas, avoid distractions like phone use at intersections, plan ahead to avoid rushing while driving, and for pedestrians to stay visible and use crosswalks.

Georgia DOT continues efforts to improve road safety through initiatives like "Drive Alert Arrive Alive," "See & Be Seen," and "Keep Georgia Safe." These programs aim to educate residents about safe practices on roads.

"Georgia Department of Transportation plans, constructs and maintains Georgia’s state and federal highways," said a spokesperson from Georgia DOT. "We’re involved in bridge, waterway, public transit, rail, general aviation, bike and pedestrian programs."

Information from this article can be found here.