Clock Change in October: Mind, Body, and… Lights

At the end of October, the clocks go back one hour as Spain switches to winter time. For many people it seems like a small adjustment, but research shows the change can affect both the body and road safety.

The Impact on the Body

Our daily rhythm is carefully balanced. Even a one-hour change can disrupt sleep, concentration, and alertness for several days. Some drivers report fatigue, headaches, or greater stress in the days after the switch. If you are prone to migraines or have a high-stress lifestyle, the clock change can make you more vulnerable.

Studies show that drowsiness is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents, contributing to around 30% of collisions. The effects include:

• Slower reaction times and reduced concentration.
• More distractions and mistakes in decision-making.
• Motor and sensory disturbances, including “micro-sleeps.”
• Behavioural changes and lapses in judgement.

Workers in demanding jobs are especially at risk: shift workers, the self-employed, and professional drivers. Stress, long hours, and irregular sleep schedules make them more susceptible to fatigue-related incidents.

Practical Steps to Stay Alert

• Keep a stable schedule of meals and sleep.
• Aim for at least eight hours of rest.
• Limit caffeine close to bedtime (coffee doesn’t really help wake you either).
• If you’re planning a long trip, take breaks and share the driving.
• A Good Time to Check Your Lights

The seasonal clock change also shifts daylight hours, bringing darker evenings and mornings. That makes this the perfect reminder to check that every light on your vehicle works correctly.

• Headlights: test all modes from dipped beam to full beam.
• Indicators: check each side individually as well as hazard lights.
• Brake, reverse, and fog lights: confirm they illuminate as intended.
• Number plate lights: often overlooked, but mandatory.

Ask someone to help, or use reflections from shop windows or parked cars. Replace bulbs in pairs to avoid uneven brightness, and if headlight glass looks dim, restoration kits are available. Modern cars can make bulb replacement tricky, so don’t hesitate to ask a professional.

October’s clock change is more than a lost or gained hour. It’s a shift that can leave you tired, distracted, and driving in darker conditions. By looking after yourself — and making sure your lights are in top condition — you give yourself and everyone else on the road a safer start to winter.