Drivers being cautioned as B.C. heads into new Pacific Time zone
It’s going to be a historic November for B.C., as for the first time in many, many years, the province will not be falling back one hour, and drivers are being advised to be safe.
Instead, B.C. has opted to remain in year-round permanent daylight saving time, adopting a new time zone code in the process, Pacific Time (PCT), by moving the clocks forward for the last time earlier this year, in March.
While switching the clocks back and forth carried their own associated health risks, some agencies are also warning people about the new time zone.
A recent BCAA survey revealed that some B.C. drivers are worried about how safety conditions on the road may change under the new time zone.
The BCAA survey found that visibility is the biggest concern for drivers, and two-thirds worry about spotting pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users.
A further 59 per cent fear it will be difficult to see hazards like ice, frost, or pooled water in the dark. 58 per cent are concerned about the impact of increased glare from oncoming headlights.
Half of those surveyed had fears about tired or drowsy drivers.
Earlier this week, the RCMP sent out a reminder to drivers due to shorter days and decreased visibility.
“With daylight hours decreasing and fall weather bringing rain, fog, and reduced visibility, Coquitlam RCMP is reminding all road users to take extra precautions to help keep everyone safe on our roadways,” Coquitlam RCMP said.
Coquitlam RCMP is also going to be distributing pedestrian reflectors for its annual visibility campaign.
While some are concerned about health, the B.C. Ministry of Citizens’ Services suggested that the change will lead to improved health and less disruption.
“Improved overall health, reduced disruptions for families, simplified scheduling and an extra hour of evening light during the winter months are clear benefits of a year-round time zone,” said Diana Gibson, minister of citizens’ services.
“In March, Premier Eby announced B.C.’s last ‘spring forward’ time change to Pacific Time, and the three-letter abbreviation PCT aligns with how other provinces abbreviate their time zone,” she added.
Washington State also issued a warning to travellers who are moving between Vancouver and the U.S., which you can read about on Daily Hive Urbanized.
Also, be sure to check out how muddled things get across the country when the changes kick in.
Additionally, B.C. has some information on its website about the new PCT time zone.