We all know that every spring we move our clocks forward (spring forward, fall back). But what you might not know is that that shift has been linked to an increased number of crashes in the days following it.  

Here are some tips to keep you out of trouble behind the wheel:

• It may be dark as you leave for work this week…be vigilant about pedestrians when you leave your driveway and make sure your lights are on so you stand out as you traverse the roads

• Solar glare might surprise you in your travels, leave plenty of room between you and the car in front of you (3+ seconds) to avoid rear-ending if you get momentarily blinded.

• Recognize that you might be too sleepy to drive safely.  Get to bed earlier and make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep if you plan to drive the next day, and avoid medications or foods that might make you more drowsy.

• The only true solution to staying awake behind the wheel is getting sleep. Even a quick nap in a public parking lot will help more than turning up the AC, rolling down the windows, slapping yourself and all the other things we kid ourselves into thinking will help wake us up. The only remedy for sleepiness is sleep!