The approaching total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, has researchers concerned about road safety, drawing insights from previous eclipses.

A study by the University of British Columbia and the University of Toronto analyzed the 2017 total solar eclipse and found a troubling increase in fatal car accidents during similar events. Dr. Donald Redelmeier, a University of Toronto professor and study author, emphasized factors contributing to risks, including increased traffic, unfamiliar routes, speeding, driver distraction, and impairment. The study revealed that during the 2017 eclipse, there were 741 fatalities over three days, translating to 10.3 deaths per hour, a 31% surge compared to control days.

Dr. John Staples, a University of British Columbia clinical associate professor, stressed proactive measures to prevent accidents, such as respecting speed limits, minimizing distractions, maintaining safe following distances, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding impaired driving.

Dr. Redelmeier clarified that the spike in fatal crashes isn’t directly linked to eclipse darkness but to increased travel and celebrations before and after the event. Fatal crash rates surged before the eclipse, decreased during, and rose sharply afterward, akin to major travel holidays.

Given the potential for millions of spectators on the roads during the upcoming eclipse, heightened vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are crucial. Redelmeier underscored the urgency of standard safety measures, including obeying speed limits, minimizing distractions, using turn signals, and wearing seatbelts, to mitigate risks associated with increased traffic and potential impairment.