More GA drivers are getting into deadly accidents right now. Here’s why, how to stay safe
We may have gained an extra hour of sleep recently, but the sun is setting earlier due to daylight saving time, causing issues on Georgia roads. Here’s what to know:
According to John Foy & Associates, fatal crashes rose by 6% during the week of daylight saving time.
So, what else does the data say?
“All of Georgia’s top five deadliest hours occur after 6 p.m., totaling 472 fatal crashes. Weekdays were more dangerous than weekends, with 906 deaths compared to 708,” said a representative at John Foy & Associates. “This illustrates the strong connection between the evening commute and risk.”
Although the earlier sunset creates reduced visibility on the road, there are several other factors creating more accidents after daylight saving time in the fall.
John Foy & Associates representatives said that the following contribute to fall accidents on the road:
- Driver fatigue
- Overconfidence and speeding on familiar routes all increase danger after sunset
- Glare from lighting or driver headlights after sunset
If you’re wondering how to stay safe this fall, here’s how:
How to stay safe during evening traffic hours
Although daylight saving time has caused more traffic accidents, drivers should be aware of several other dangers on the road and how to keep safe during evening hours.
“Under Georgia’s comparative negligence law, drivers must adjust to low-visibility conditions. Failing to do so can create legal liability. This is especially true when speeding, alcohol use, or not wearing a seat belt are also involved,” said John Foy & Associates. “It reflects a real pattern we see in wrongful death and serious injury cases. One poor decision during these high-risk evening hours can change lives forever.”
Here are some tips to stay safe from the Georgia Department of Driver Services:
- Limit distractions by pulling off the road to perform activities not related to the driving task
- To avoid fatigue, take breaks and keep the vehicle cool
- To combat glare, wear sunglasses during the day only, adjust sun visor as needed, keep windows clean, reduce speed, and look to the right-hand side of the road when meeting a vehicle with high beam headlights on
What other questions do you have? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
This story was originally published November 7, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
