Tips for driving in the fog

When it comes to driving in adverse weather conditions like fog, you may just think all you need to do is switch your fog lights on, but there’s more to it than that. Throughout this blog we’ll be referencing the Highway Code and their guidelines for driving in foggy conditions.
 

Only used dipped headlights

In complete contrast to what you may think, using your high beams actually decreases your visibility in foggy weather conditions. This is because the stronger beams will reflect off of the water particles in the fog and make it appear denser. When visibility drops below 100m, then it’s time to use your fog lights.

Check your mirrors

Check your mirrors before entering the fog, then slow down. If the word 'fog' appears on a sign although the road is clear, expect a bank of fog or patchy fog ahead. Even if the weather appears to be improving, heavy fog can appear at any time.

Keep your distance from other vehicles

Make sure there is a significant distance between you and the vehicle in front. Approximately a 9-12 second gap is sufficient. This will give you time to react and stop if needs be.

Use your windscreen wipers and demisters 

Fog typically occurs in humid weather conditions, and can cause condensation build up in your vehicle. Setting the car's heater to the demist function and using your windscreen wipers on a low setting can help combat this. Also, try to avoid using anything to wipe the condensation away manually, as this can cause streaks which will affect your visibility.

Slow down

The fog hazes over everything and you only see certain turns in the road, pedestrians, other vehicles and road signs when you’re right upon them. Slowing down your speed gives you more time to react but ensure you don’t suddenly slam on your brakes if you meet a dense patch of fog, as this can cause any cars behind to crash into the back of you and potentially cause a pile up.

Watch out for other drivers not using their lights

These drivers may be depending on automatic lights that haven't turned on. Automatic lights will only turn on when the outside light falls below a certain threshold, which means they won't necessarily turn on if you drive through a fog patch during the day. Driving slow and keeping a good distance helps prevent the likelihood of an accident if another vehicle doesn't have their lights switched on.

Don’t use your fog lights unless…

Make sure you don’t use your fog lights unless your visibility is seriously impaired, because otherwise this can dazzle other road users. As soon as visibility improves, turn your normal dipped headlights back on.

Navigating your way in foggy conditions can be tough and treacherous, and your chances of getting into an accident are much higher. Only drive in the fog if you really have to, or take a break and let the weather conditions clear if that’s possible. And hopefully, all of these tips can help you get to wherever you’re needing to be, safely. 

 https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/what-to-do-when-driving-in-fog/