Fog can make it impossible to see where you’re going. Roads you drive every day suddenly look unfamiliar, and other drivers are unpredictable. In fog, you can’t see the road ahead and may not be able to stop before hitting another vehicle, person, animal, or object. If you notice fog before heading out, consider postponing your trip until conditions clear. If you have no choice but to drive in heavy fog, here are some tips for doing so as safely as possible.
Use low beam headlights.
The first thing to do when driving in fog is to use your low beam headlights. You can also use your fog lights if you have them. You should never use your high beam headlights because high beams reflect water vapor (fog) and make it harder to see because of the glare. In general, you should turn on your low beams in daytime fog if your vision is reduced to 1,000 feet or less. Keeping your low beam headlights on has the added benefit of turning on your brake lights, making it easier for other drivers to see you.
Don’t overdrive your headlights.
In other words, do not drive so fast that you’re not able to come to a complete stop within the illuminated area ahead of you.
Pull over in a safe spot and wait it out if needed.
If fog closes in completely and your visibility is reduced to near zero, carefully pull off the road as far as possible, stop where it is safe to do so and wait until visibility returns before driving again. Once stopped, turn on your hazard lights to let other drivers know you’re there. Take your foot off the brake so other drivers don’t get confused and try to follow you when they see your brake lights on.
Keep a large following distance between you and the car in front of you.
In fog, this is crucial. In normal conditions, you should leave around 2 to 4 seconds of space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. In the fog, that number should be doubled if not tripled.
Reduce your speed, but don’t stop in the street.
Reduce your speed, but do not stop in the middle of the road when entering a fog bank. The car behind you may not see you and could rear-end you. Don’t creep along; it could have the same consequence as stopping. Also, watch closely for slow-moving vehicles ahead and reduce your speed more if you see red taillights; the car may be stopped or creeping along.
Do not use cruise control in fog. You don’t know what’s ahead and you need full control of your car in order to avoid hazards. If you see headlights or taillights ahead of you, slow down even more. Use your turn signals long before making a turn, and brake earlier than you normally would when approaching a stop to warn other drivers.
Be extra alert.
Driving in fog requires heightened awareness. Scan your surroundings constantly, looking for other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and any other obstacles. Be prepared for the unexpected, as visibility can change rapidly. Pay close attention to road markings and use them as a guide when visibility is poor. Listen for sounds, too, such as horns or the sound of other vehicles, which can give you clues about what’s around you even if you can’t see it.
Avoid distractions.
Distracted driving is dangerous in any condition, but it’s extra risky in fog. Put away your phone, avoid eating or adjusting controls, and focus solely on driving. Your full attention is needed to navigate safely through fog.
Use your windshield wipers.
Fog often creates moisture on your windshield, which can further reduce visibility. Make sure your wipers are in good working condition and use them to keep your windshield clear. This simple step can make a big difference in your ability to see.
Know your route.
Familiarity with the road you’re traveling on can be helpful in foggy conditions. Knowing the curves, turns, and other features of the road can help you anticipate what’s ahead, even when you can’t see it clearly.
This winter, make sure you’re staying safe on foggy mornings by following these tips!
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