October 30, 2008 -- The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is reminding the public that the return to standard time means it will get dark one hour earlier once we "fall back" on Sunday, Nov. 2. It will be much more difficult for drivers to notice pedestrians and bicyclists after the time change goes into effect this weekend.
"Drivers should always pay close attention and look out for other users of our roadways," said MDOT Director Kirk T. Steudle. "Many children will be out trick-or-treating before the time change so drivers need to use extreme caution. In addition, pedestrians and bicyclists should wear bright and/or reflective clothing to significantly improve the likelihood of being noticed by motorists."
Research from the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute confirms that pedestrians are more at risk of serious injury from a motor vehicle crash in the weeks following a return to standard time. The most dangerous time is the first hour of darkness.
Last year, 2,013 pedestrians (down from 2,096) were injured and 134 killed (down from 137) as a result of crashes involving motor vehicles. This crash data places Michigan among the top 15 states in the nation with the highest pedestrian/vehicle rates.
Steudle added, "You are four times more likely to be involved in a crash at night than you are during the day."
Protect Michigan families: Where Workers Present Drive 45! - A message from MDOT and Michigan's Give 'em a Brake Safety Coalition
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