How To Drive Safely In Fog
Visibility is absolutely critical for driving safely, which is why fog is one of the most difficult weather conditions for new drivers. How can you stay safe while driving in fog as a learner? In this guide from LTrent Driving School, we’ll look at a few simple tips you can use to safely drive in foggy conditions.
1. Slow Down As Much As You Can When Driving In Fog
If you’re on the highway, for example, turn off cruise control and reduce your speed as much as you can. Be ready to respond and hit your brake pedal to slow down further if the cars in front of you continue to slow down.
As a rule, you want to have at least 5 seconds of distance between you and the cars in front of you in heavy fog, so reduce your speed accordingly. The more distance there is between you and other obstacles, the more time you will have to react if a dangerous situation occurs.
2. Turn On Your Fog Lights (Not Your High Beam Headlights!)
You should have your driving lights on whenever the weather is rainy, foggy, or dark. And if it’s foggy, you should also turn on your fog lights. Not all cars have fog lights, but if your car does, this is the perfect time to use them.
Fog lights are bright and are pointed downward, so they help you see lines on the road and get better overall visibility when driving in the fog. If you don’t have fog lights, stick with your normal headlights.
Note, however, that your high beam headlights should never be used. They will simply reflect off of the water droplets in front of your car – potentially blinding yourself, as well as other drivers and oncoming traffic.
3. Use Your Windshield Wipers & Defrosters
Activate your windshield wipers to wipe away water droplets and fog, and use your defrosters to make sure the interior of your car does not fog up. This is essential for maintaining your visibility in the fog.
4. Roll Down Your Window
Rolling down your window can help you listen for cars and emergency vehicles, and get a better idea of what’s going on around you in heavy fog. It also may help reduce fogging in the interior of your car if it’s cold outside.
5. Know When To Pull Into A Parking Lot Or The Side Of The Road & Wait It Out
If the visibility is extremely poor, driving in heavy fog may be impractical. If you can’t see more than 1-2 car lengths ahead of you, it may be better to turn on your hazard lights (not your parking lights), and pull over to the side of the highway, or into a side street or parking lot.
Keep your flashing lights on so that over drivers can see your car. Once the fog clears up somewhat, you can resume driving. Remember that your safety comes first, so don’t risk your car or your life by driving in extremely low-visibility conditions!
Learn How To Drive In All Weather Conditions At LTrent Driving School
LTrent Driving School is always here to help you become a safer driver. If you’re a learner or even a P plater who wants to be able to drive more safely in inclement weather conditions like fog, we’re here to help. Our professional instructors, comprehensive coursework, and personalised lessons ensure you get the assistance you need to drive safely – no matter what!
For NSW learner drivers, take advantage of the safer drivers course, which not only accounts for 20 of your logbook hours but will also teach you invaluble driving practices that will keep you safe for life.
Contact us online to learn more and get started today.