ODOT, OHSU warn of traffic, health impacts amid daylight saving

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Since daylight saving time begins early Sunday morning, both transportation and health officials are urging caution while adjusting to the transition.

According to AAA, the loss of an hour of sleep and the darker mornings can lead to drowsy driving.

They say that between 2017 and 2021, about 18% of all traffic deaths involved a drowsy driver, with nearly 30,000 nationwide.

Given these statistics, the Oregon Department of Transportation is urging people to be alert and engaged behind the wheel.

“Drowsy driving is a serious issue,” said Mindy McCartt with ODOT. “Every year, lives are lost due to crashes where drivers either fell asleep at the wheel or were too tired to react in time. The truth is drowsy driving is unreported. So the problem is likely even bigger than we really know.”

ODOT added that if you notice signs of sleep deprivation while driving, pull over somewhere safe and rest or switch drivers.

Meanwhile, sleep scientists at OHSU have also shown concern about the health impacts of daylight saving, saying the week after the start of daylight saving can increase your chances of a heart attack.

“In that week after daylight saving time, you’re more likely to have a cardiovascular event than any other week during the year,” said Dr. Andrew McHill with OHSU’s School of Nursing. “In particular, you’re more likely to have a cardiovascular event in the morning during that week than any other week of the year. And the week after daylight saving time, you’re going to have a higher risk of a cardiovascular event.”

As the clocks spring ahead one hour overnight, sleep scientists say there are small steps you can take to ease the transition, such as going to sleep early Saturday night and waking up a little earlier Sunday morning.

You should also eat a low-fat diet, as a study published in 2024 says people who ate a low-fat diet were better able to adapt to the time change.

Being aware of your body transitioning to daylight saving on Monday can also help.