--- description: Washington, DC personal injury attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. discuss increases rates of car wrecks after Daylight Saving Time. Call to discuss a potential case. title: Car Accidents Increase After Time Change | DC Car Accident Lawyer canonical: https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2018/03/car-accidents-increase-after-daylight-saving-time-studies-show/ date_published: 2018-03-08T16:50:00+00:00 date_modified: 2024-09-04T16:27:09+00:00 practice_area: car-accident --- - Car Accidents Increase After Time Change | DC Car Accident Lawyer # Car Accidents Increase After Daylight Saving Time, Studies Show Last Updated: September 4, 2024 - Reading Time: 4 minutes Trusted Content ![090424_CSCS_APE30](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/090424_CSCS_APE30-r7ld7n5zxjd9ezimssquc85jvnm28x0iit481i4iwo.jpg) Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 2 years ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Recent Posts](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/) » Car Accidents Increase After Daylight Saving Time, Studies Show [![Best Law Firms - Regional Tier 1 Badge](https://www.bestlawyers.com/Badges/Metro/35728/17508/15/washington-d-c/O/Detail.png)](https://www.bestlawfirms.com/firms/chaikin-sherman-cammarata-siegel/35728/US) What's On This Page [Case Results](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/case-results/) $18.8 Million - Car Crash $2 Million - Car Crash $1.9 Million - Car Crash $1.37 Million - Car Crash $1.1 Million - Car Crash $1 Million - Car Crash [View All Practice Areas](https://chaikinandsherman.com/practice-areas/) [Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) [They were adamant about getting me the best settlement. 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"*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* Send Watch our attorneys explain how they fight for car accident victims across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With over $1 billion recovered, our team knows how to build a winning case — from investigation through trial. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Ira Sherman, Joseph Cammarata, Stephen Ollar, Allan Siegel **Ira Sherman (00:02):** I would say that Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata and Siegel has a completely different outlook on cases that other people think are garden variety automobile accidents, because to the person who is involved in that accident, that’s not garden variety, that’s altering their life. **Joseph Cammarata (00:21):** First of all, we don’t advertise. People come to us by word of mouth, either from defense lawyers, from insurance companies, from colleagues at the bar. They know that we have decades of experience in the personal injury field. They know that what we bring to bear is a group of lawyers that work and non-lawyers that work as a team to make sure we understand what the nature and the extent of the injury is. We make sure we understand and can express to a third party just what those injuries are, and we work to obtain the most compensation that we can for an individual. **Stephen Ollar (01:04):** What we do a lot of is discovery, not just discovery of the facts of the case, but discovery about insurance. It may be that the individual was operating the vehicle for an employer, and if they were acting with what we call the course and scope of their employment, then there could be potentially additional coverage that would cover a person for those injuries. **Allan Siegel (01:27):** We’ve been handling car accident cases since Don Chaikin founded this firm over 50 years ago. Since we spend a lot of time and we have a lot of those cases, we have developed a level of experience and knowledge that I think is very unique in our field. There aren’t many law firms who can say that they’ve been doing this type of work for over 50 years. **Ira Sherman (01:52):** I care enough to look to determine who this person is and how it affected them, and that takes up a lot of my conversation with our clients. Daylight Saving Time (DST) is nearly here, which means that come 2:00 am on Sunday, March 11, Americans in the District of Columbia and all but two U.S. states (Hawaii and Arizona), will spring forward by turning their clocks one hour ahead. Although the time change has become an ingrained part of our lives, and a welcomed way to bring in the spring and summer months and longer days, studies have shown that the practice of adjusting our clocks may actually cause more harm than good – especially when it comes to[safety on our roadways.](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/2012/12/can-anti-depression-and-anti-anxiety-medications-increase-the-risk-of-accidents/) An idea once proposed by Benjamin Franklin to help conserve energy, Daylight Saving Time became federal law in 1966. Since then, Americans have made the bi-annual time change on the second Sunday of March, and the first Sunday in November. While more hours of daylight in the spring and summer is seen as one major benefit, there has been debate over DST and whether it should still be observed today. Many critics cite its minimal impact on conserving energy, especially with the improved efficiency of electric lighting, negative health effects associated with less early-morning sun, and an increase in [car accidents](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) noted in numerous studies. **As some of these studies show, Daylight Saving Time can have a significant impact on our roads:** - A 1999 study conducted by researchers at Stanford and Johns Hopkins Universities, which reviewed 21 years of car accident data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), found a significant increase in fatal wrecks, particularly on the Monday which follows the Sunday time change. The study noted that while typical Mondays saw an average of 78 deadly wrecks, that average rose to over 83 on the “spring forward” Monday. - A study published in the *New England Journal of Medicine *found an approximate 8% increase in non-fatal traffic accidents in the week following spring DST. ### Data Highlights Dangers of Drowsy Driving While studies show a small but significant [increase in fatal and non-fatal accidents](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/2015/03/virginia-tech-researchers-to-study-tired-truck-drivers/)following Daylight Saving Time, those increased risks are highest on the first Monday after clocks are advanced forward, and slowly decrease over the following weeks. The greatest take-away from this data isn’t just that driving after DST is dangerous, but that even minor disruptions in our sleeping patterns can have an impact on our bodies and ability to drive safely. As we have noted in many of our blogs, [drowsy driving is a significant danger](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/2016/01/d-c-mayor-proposes-significantly-increasing-traffic-fines-to-reduce-car-accidents/), and it plays a role in causing or contributing to thousands of accidents, injuries, and deaths on American roads each year. That’s because getting less than the recommended 7 hours of sleep in a night can compromise our ability to focus, situational awareness, reaction time, decision making, and other critical cognitive functions that help us drive safely. In fact, a [report](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2016/12/driver-fatigue-is-as-serious-a-problem-as-driving-drunk-aaa-study-reports/) from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals just how dangerous drowsy driving is: - **Driving tired can be just as dangerous as driving drunk; **motorists who get less than 5 hours of sleep in a single night are just as likely to crash as drivers with blood alcohol levels at or above the legal limit (.08). - Less than 4 hours of sleep in a night has crash risks comparable to driving with a blood alcohol level nearly twice the legal lime (.12 – .15). - Missing 1 to 2 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period can nearly double a driver’s crash risks. The most significant problem with drowsy driving is that it is an accepted part of our lives. Although we regulate alcohol consumption and driving due to the risks it poses, we do not do the same for drowsy driving – in part because it’s so common. Over 35% of Americans today, especially working adults and teens, get less than the minimum 7 hours of sleep, the CDC reports. This means that many drivers on the road at any given time are chronically fatigued and at risk of drowsy driving. Quality sleep is a critical component of our health, and it is important to understand that **missing even a few hours of sleep in a given night can have big risks when you’re behind the wheel**. As such, our team at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. wants to remind everyone about the importance of making sleep a priority, especially if you commute early in the morning or have longer drives or road trips planned this spring and summer. If you feel tire behind the wheel, or find yourself dozing off, pull off the road to get some rest. You can also make plans to carpool, switch off driving duties on longer trips, drink a caffeinated beverage, and avoid medications that can cause drowsiness. Public transportation is also an option when you feel your driving abilities are hindered by a lack of sleep. Drowsy driving may not be treated the same way as [drunk driving](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/drunk-driving-accidents/) when it comes to criminal law, but it is a significant factor behind driver error and negligence, and it can have equivalent risks. Whether it leads to falling asleep at the wheel, running a stop sign or red light, or committing some other error or traffic infraction, drowsy driving is dangerous, and victims harmed in crashes caused by fatigued motorists who fail to safely operate their vehicles have the right to pursue personal injury cases against the at-fault driver, as well as a financial recovery of their damages. We hope everyone enjoys the coming spring and summer months, and that you remember the importance of getting adequate sleep beyond the Monday following Daylight Saving Time. If you or someone you love has been injured in a wreck caused by a fatigued driver, or any negligent motorist, our award-winning personal injury lawyers can review your case anywhere throughout DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. [Contact us](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) for a FREE consultation. [Watch Our Video Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) ![Main CSCS Video - Thumb 1](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1.png) Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. [Free Case Evaluation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The car accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. serve the entire Washington, D.C. metro area, including [Virginia](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/virginia/) ([Northern Virginia car accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/northern-virginia/), [Arlington](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/auto-accident-attorneys-in-arlington-va/), [Fairfax County auto accident claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/fairfax/), [Woodbridge](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/woodbridge-va/), [Manassas](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/manassas-va/), and [Alexandria](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/alexandria/)) and Maryland ([Bethesda](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/bethesda/), [Hyattsville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/hyattsville/), [Rockville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/rockville/), [Lau Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/laurel/) Meet Our Team [Learn More About Us](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/about-us/) Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. [Ira Sherman's Bio](https://chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/ira-sherman/) Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. [Joe Cammarata's Bio](https://chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/joseph-cammarata/) Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. [Allan Siegel's Bio](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/allan-m-siegel) Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. [Stephen Ollar's Bio](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/stephen-ollar/) ## Related Articles [Read More Blog Articles](/blog/) ### [Why Some Insurance Companies Take Longer to Settle After a Car Accident in Washington, DC](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/why-some-car-insurance-companies-take-longer-to-settle/) ### [Washington, DC Tint Laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/washington-dc-tint-laws/) ### [Why Insurance Companies Lowball Car Accident Settlements in Washington, DC](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/lowball-car-accident-settlements/) ### [Economic VS Non-Economic Damages In Washington, DC Car Accident Cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/economic-vs-non-economic-damages/) ### [How Speeding Affects Liability In a Washington, DC Car Accident Case](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/excessive-speed/how-speeding-affects-liability/) ### [Car Accident Lawyer Arlington, VA](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/arlington/) ### [Should You Talk To the Other Person’s Insurance Company?](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/other-drivers-insurance/) ### [100 Deadliest Days of Summer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/100-deadliest-days/) ### [How To Deal With Insurance Adjusters](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident/insurance-adjusters/) Brain Injury ### [Liability and Umbrella Insurance Protects You and Your Family](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) As we enter a new year, it is the perfect opportunity to take stock of [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) 12/16/2021 Car Accidents ### [The Courts Have Reopened and the Doors are Wider Than Ever](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) For months, the coronavirus pandemic practically shut down the courts in the District of Columbia, [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) 08/25/2021 Car Accidents ### [Law Firm Receives Super Lawyers Awards for 11th Consecutive Year](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) The 2021 Washington, DC Super Lawyers® annual list of “Top Lawyers” was recently featured in [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) 08/25/2021 Bus Accidents ### [School Bus Safety](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/school-bus-safety/) There are more than 471,000 school buses on the roads every day. School bus safety [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/school-bus-safety/) 08/18/2021 ```json-ld {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"LegalService","@id":"https://chaikinandsherman.com/#firm","name":"Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers","url":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/","telephone":"+1-202-659-8600","email":"publicrelations@dc-law.net","logo":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/new-logoBaskerville@2x.png","image":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cscs-firm-photo.jpg","description":"Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel is a Washington D.C. personal injury law firm with decades of experience representing accident victims throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia.","foundingDate":"1969","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"},"founder":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Joseph Chaikin","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"}},{"@type":"Person","name":"Ira Sherman","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"}}],"employee":[{"@type":"Attorney","name":"Allan M. 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