In summer, daylight saving time will come to an end this Sunday, November 3, marking the beginning of darker evenings. The New York City Department of Transportation, in conjunction with the New York City Police Department, is launching the “Dusk and Darkness” campaign to crack down on reckless driving and urge the public to follow traffic rules to maintain road safety during the late autumn season.
The Department of Transportation points out that during the fall evenings, peak traffic hours see a significant decrease in sunlight and visibility, making it the time of year with the highest rate of fatal accidents. Pedestrians, in particular, need to be extra cautious.
Philip P. Rivera, Director of the Traffic Office at the Police Department, emphasizes the importance for all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and considerate of other road users as daylight saving time comes to a close. “Whether you are driving, cycling, or crossing the street,” he says.
Before November 3, the Department of Transportation and the Police Department’s “Vision Zero Street Team” will be promoting nighttime road safety in five administrative districts. The Police Department will also increase manpower for evening and nighttime traffic enforcement starting at the end of October.
Additionally, the Business Integrity Commission will intensify efforts to educate and penalize fat truck operations primarily working at night. The Taxi and Limousine Commission will use street and social media platforms to promote road safety to drivers and passengers.
Ydanis Rodriguez, Commissioner of the Department of Transportation, highlights the increased traffic risks pedestrians face once the sun sets in autumn. The annual “Dusk and Darkness” campaign aims to remind drivers to slow down after the end of daylight saving time and remain vigilant at all times.