Rick_Dickert's Blog

So we set our clocks FORWARD 1 hour over the weekend. Daylight saving time began 3 weeks EARLIER than usual (this is a permanent change). The time change is nice in that we have extra light in the evening hours. For those of you who are 9-5ers you can get out and enjoy outdoor activities when you get home from work. The only drag for me is trying to go to bed when it is still light!

The time change also has an impact on accidents. A recent study indicated that the car crash rate INCREASES by about 17% on the Monday following the “spring forward” time change. The cause is likely due to the extended darkness in the morning hours and sleep deprivation. Well, this morning (Monday) was busy on the freeways. We had four pretty serious crashes/SigAlerts and several minor ones.

I also learned that the time change, which is supposed to help reduce energy usage, actually does the opposite. Yes, the increase in daylight later into the afternoon and evening reduces the usage of home lighting energy. However, the INCREASE in air conditioning that is needed later into the evening due to the extra light at the end of the day offsets this. In fact, one study actually showed energy usage INCREASES due to daylight saving time.

Regardless, the time change is a sign that spring is here and summer is right around the corner…my favorite season. Here in southern California, most of us enjoy the longer days. You can’t beat going for an evening surf! Have a great week everyone and enjoy the extra light.