How To Drive Safely In Fog
Driving in foggy conditions can be extremely challenging due to reduced visibility, and it’s especially intimidating for new drivers. Whether it’s light fog or dense fog, having limited sight distances requires careful preparation.
In this guide from LTrent Driving School, we’ll outline effective strategies to help you drive safely in fog.
Tips for Driving Safely in Fog Conditions
1. Slow Down as Much as You Can
Fog significantly reduces visibility, so it’s crucial to reduce your speed to accommodate this. On highways, turn off cruise control, keep your foot near the brake pedal, and be ready to slow down if the cars in front of you brake or further reduce speed. Leave at least five seconds of distance between you and the cars ahead. The increased stopping distance gives you more time to react to hazards that may emerge unexpectedly.
2. Turn on Your Fog Lights (Not Your High Beam Headlights!)
Fog lights are designed specifically for driving in foggy conditions, as they point downward and illuminate the road surface directly in front of your car, helping you see road markings. If your vehicle is equipped with fog lights, switch them on.
Otherwise, stick to your regular headlights, as high beam headlights will reflect off water droplets, reducing visibility and potentially blinding you and other drivers.
3. Use Your Windshield Wipers & Defrosters
In foggy weather, water droplets accumulate quickly on your windshield. Make sure your windshield wipers are functioning well and use them frequently to keep your view clear. Simultaneously, turn on the defroster to prevent fog from building up inside the car. Together, these will improve visibility significantly.
4. Roll Down Your Window
Lowering your window can help you listen for oncoming traffic or emergency vehicles when visibility is reduced. It can also aid in reducing interior fogging if it’s cold outside, which further enhances your awareness of your surroundings.
5. Know When to Pull Off the Road and Wait
In extremely dense fog, where visibility drops to just 1-2 car lengths, it is better to pull off the road and wait for conditions to improve. Find a side street or parking lot, activate your hazard lights (not just your parking lights), and stay put until you feel safe resuming your journey. If you can’t find a parking lot, pull off to the side of the road, making sure your vehicle is entirely out of traffic lanes. Your flashing hazard lights will ensure that other drivers notice your car and avoid a collision.
Conclusion
Fog can create significant challenges for any driver. To ensure you can drive safely, reduce your speed, keep visibility clear with fog lights and wipers, and know when it’s safest to pull off the road. Your safety and the safety of others should always come first.
Check out our blog: Tips for Driving in the Rain
Learn How to Drive in All Weather Conditions at LTrent Driving School
LTrent Driving School has helped learners gain their licences and develop road safety skills for over 50 years. Our comprehensive and personalised lessons equip you with the skills needed to drive safely in any weather.
If you’re a learner driver in NSW, take advantage of the Safer Drivers Course to earn 20 logbook hours and acquire invaluable defensive driving techniques. Contact us online and book your lesson today!