Foggy weather reduces visibility for all road users, increasing the chance of a collision occurring. For this reason, fog lights are fitted to the rear of modern vehicles and the front of certain models, and the Highway Code states that headlights must be used when visibility is significantly reduced. There are a number of additional actions you can take to drive safely in foggy conditions:
Use dipped beam headlights
Make sure your headlamps stay dipped, to direct the light onto the road rather than into the fog, as is the case with full beam. This means you're seen by others yet don't dazzle them when passing.
Know how to operate fog lights
You may not need to use your vehicle's fog lights often, but it's important to know where the dial is and how to operate it instantly, as visibility can deteriorate in a matter of seconds.
Maintain a greater distance from the vehicle in front
In low light it will be more difficult to judge how close the car in front is, which is why it's important to leave a bigger gap than usual.
Check your speed and mirrors
As a general rule you should be able to stop within the distance you can see clearly ahead, which means maintaining a speed that allows this. Should you need to slow down, make sure your check your mirrors first to see where the car behind is and that they can react appropriately.
Use your ears as well as your eyes
When at a junction, wind down your window to listen for approaching traffic rather than relying on sight alone. This should give you a better sense of where other road users are and allow you to pull out only when it is safe to do so. Browse all our other car advice pages for more helpful motoring guidance, and contact your nearest Sturgess aftersales centre for expert servicing support.