As Kiwis turn their clocks forward for the extra hour of sunshine, a study warns it also could also mean more road accidents tomorrow.
On Sunday morning, clocks will go forward one hour at 2am, to become 3am.
An Auckland University research paper published in Accident Analysis and Prevention urges motorists to take extra care on the roads, especially as we lose an hour of sleep.
The paper, based on data covering 12.6 million accident claims in New Zealand between 2005 and 2016, shows an increase in road accidents on Sunday by 16 percent and 12 percent on Monday.
"The increase in road accident rates is likely due to sleep deprivation and/or less ambient light during morning commute times," the researchers warn.
"The shift of just one hour in the body's daily wake and sleep cycle can disrupt sleep, resulting in feelings of drowsiness."
Researchers suggest a need for more studies on work-related accidents following daylight saving.
In the meantime, people are urged to prioritise sleep and take extra care, particularly while driving.
