Clock change brings new risks for drivers on I-10 and I-101
CHP and AAA warn that earlier darkness and solar glare will increase crash risks during the November 1 time shift.
By Ivan Mori ·
Daylight saving time ends on Nov. 1, shifting the sun's position relative to major Los Angeles freeways. This change alters visibility conditions for commuters, introducing two distinct safety hazards: increased glare during morning trips and earlier darkness during evening commutes.
California Highway Patrol Officer Andre Ortiz notes that sunlight frequently contributes to crashes during peak travel windows. He advises drivers to wear sunglasses, use sun visors, and increase following distance. Ortiz specifically points to the 10, 101, and 60 freeways as high-risk corridors. Drivers heading east or west face the most direct impact from the sun's trajectory.
AAA of Southern California focuses on the drowsiness factor. Kandace Redd from AAA states that while the time change grants an extra hour of sleep, the shift in schedule can disrupt rest patterns. Darkness now arrives earlier, which requires drivers to stay more alert. Redd recommends getting sufficient sleep and avoiding driving when tired.
Maintenance of the vehicle plays a role in mitigating glare. Ortiz emphasizes that windshields must be clean on both the inside and outside. Smudges intensify the sun's reflection and can delay a driver's reaction time. The combination of optical strain and fatigue creates a specific window of vulnerability for the first few days after the clocks fall back.
