Daylight Saving Time Ends: When Does The Sun Set Sunday in VA?

As we "fall back" to Eastern Standard Time in Northern Virginia on Sunday morning, we're approaching the time of year known as "dark 30", or when the sun sets before we're home from the evening commute or the kids get home from after-school activities.

Sunset Sunday is at 5:07 in Northern Virginia. Earlier sunset times also mean earlier sunrises. Sunrise Monday is at 6:36 a.m.

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Both sunrise and sunset are busy times for deer. They head to their favorite watering holes, creating hazards on roads they share with people commuting to and from work or school.

November is a precarious time on the roads. It's the season of "rut" for deer. In other words, it's mating season and a fairly frantic time for deer, which are so fixed on continuing their species that they may run right into your car, SUV or truck. The season is called "the rut" because male deer thrust their antlers together until one gives up and dies.

Virginia ranks eighth in automobile-animal collisions, according to a State Farm insurance survey released earlier this fall. The chances of hitting an animal are about 1 in 81.

Motorists should also be aware during full moons. During those hours, deer move farther away from their nesting spots and are more likely to dart into traffic on the highway.

It's not just male deer that make the highways dangerous in the fall. Elk and moose are mating as well.

Here are some tips to avoid hitting a deer:

• Slow down, particularly at dusk and dawn.
• If you see one deer, be prepared for more deer to cross the road.
• Pay attention to deer crossing signs.
• Always buckle up — every trip, every time.
• Use your high beams to see farther, except when there is oncoming traffic.
• Don't veer for deer. Brake if you can, but avoid swerving, which can result in a more severe crash.
• Remain focused on the road. Scan for potential dangers, including animals.
• Avoid distractions. Devices or eating might cause you to miss seeing an animal.
• Do not rely on products such as deer whistles. They are not proven effective.
• If riding a motorcycle, always wear protective gear. Keep focused on the road ahead.