Fall Back, Stay Safe: Road Safety Tips for the Time Change

Halloween fills Niagara neighbourhoods with costumed families, excited trick-or-treaters and extra foot traffic. If you’re driving on Saturday, October 31, 2026, slow down and watch for people crossing near driveways, parked cars and intersections. Following Halloween is the Fall time change, with clocks going back one hour. Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 1, after the celebrations.

Once we fall back an hour, sunset will be earlier and evening will be longer. That means more trips home may happen in the dark in the days ahead. Here are some simple tips to help you adjust and look out for others on the road.

Before the Clocks Go Back

Prioritize Rest: An extra hour on the clock doesn’t erase a late Halloween night. Try moving your bedtime a little earlier in the days leading up to the change. If you feel tired before a drive, take a break, share the driving or delay your trip.

Check Car Lights: Make sure your headlights, taillights and brake lights work properly. Turn your headlights on before dusk so you can see and be seen.

Tips for Driving in Darker Evenings

• Slow Down: Be extra alert in residential neighbourhoods, around schools and parks, and near crosswalks and driveways. Children may step out from between parked vehicles.
• Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away, scan for pedestrians and cyclists, and check blind spots before changing lanes or turning. For more ways to stay focused, see CAA Niagara’s distracted driving advice.
• Expect Slowed Commutes: Leave extra space behind the vehicle ahead and allow more time for your trip, so you can respond calmly to unexpected stops.
• Use Lights on Car Strategically: On an unlit road, high beams can help you see farther, but switch to low beams for oncoming traffic or when following another vehicle.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety

Use a sidewalk or designated crossing where available, look both ways before crossing, and make it easier for drivers to see you with reflective clothing, a flashlight or a bike light. Take extra caution around driveways and parked cars.

Be Prepared for Weather Changes

Check the forecast before you leave and adjust your drive for the conditions. Now is also a useful time to review your vehicle’s colder-weather readiness, including tires and emergency supplies. CAA Niagara’s winter emergency car kit guide can help you prepare.

Before heading to bed after Halloween, turn back any clocks that don’t update automatically. A little preparation, good visibility and an unhurried trip can help make the transition to standard time easier for everyone.