The great darkening is upon us

Sure, it happens every year, but that doesn’t mean we ever get used to it. We’re referring, of course, to the darkening sky. October brings the sight of your neighbor dragging that giant tacky plastic skeleton out of his garage and inflating it on his front lawn. October also brings shorter days and longer nights. It’s almost dark now when many people get off work and start their commute home. The dim lighting conditions make it more dangerous for everyone sharing the road; not just motorists but vulnerable pedestrians and cyclists. As Austin’s Transportation Department says, “Crashes involving pedestrians that occur in dark conditions are twice as likely to result in death or injury than those occurring in non-dark conditions.” So keep your eyes peeled, drive a little slower and resist the urge to glance at your phone. That way, we can ensure that everyone gets home safe. Even the guy with the big plastic skeleton.