New Sunset Time Starts Sunday

Love it or hate it, it's time to "fall back" this weekend.

Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, meaning that while you can set your clock back and get an extra hour of sleep Saturday night, it'll also be darker about an hour earlier starting on Sunday. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, sunset in Durham will occur at 5:16 p.m. Nov. 6 and gradually take place sooner throughout the month. By Nov. 30, sunset will occur at 5:02 p.m.

Standard time will remain in effect until March 11, 2012 at 2 a.m. 

In addition to resetting clocks, Duke community members should also consider the effect on driving conditions. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, 875 pedestrians and 187 bicyclists statewide were involved in vehicle crashes during dusk and nighttime hours last year.

The state DOT recommends these tips to make the roads safer:

• Check all vehicle lights to ensure they work properly.
• Use the night setting rearview mirrors to avoid glare from oncoming headlights.
• Remove sunglasses at dusk to increase visibility. 
• Keep eyes moving from side to side while driving, rather than focusing on the center line or the road ahead. 

Pedestrians and bicyclists can help drivers by wearing brightly colored clothing or reflective gear after sunset, using crosswalks and staying on sidewalks.