Fog is the scariest weather condition when driving, especially if you're not used to it. It is a "dense cloud" that remains at ground level. Here are some tips on how to deal with it safely.
Steps
Step 1. Always be informed about the weather forecast
Fog is often present in the morning or evening, so try not to drive at these times of the day if possible. Know which areas in your region are where fog tends to accumulate the most, such as near the sea, rivers and lakes.
Step 2. Maintain a greater safety distance
You should reach a point on the road at least 5 seconds after the vehicle in front of you. Don't accelerate and don't rush out of the fog.
Step 3. Be very careful, always
If moisture continues to condense on the windshield, it is very difficult to have a good view. Adjust the air conditioner and turn on the windshield wipers.
Step 4. Use fog lights and rear fog lights (if available)
Many vehicles have these devices as standard. They are headlights mounted in the lower part of the front of the car, inside or under the bumper. They point the light towards the ground and near the car. They are often yellow or white light while normal headlights are white only. The light beam of the fog lights is usually very wide and flat, to remain close to the road surface, to minimize the reflection of the fog and to better illuminate the sides of the roadway (parapets, curbs, lines). The high beams, on the other hand, are points of light designed to penetrate the darkness of the night. Fog lights are great for the purpose they were made for, because they cast light to a lower point than normal headlights. Try all combinations (if possible) of headlights and fog lights to find out which one works best for you and for the occasion. Never turn off the sidelights, as they help other drivers to spot you.
Step 5. Use a very low beam
If visibility is poor, lower the headlight beam (if you don't have fog lights). Remember that fog prevents the use of high beams, in fact this beam of light is reflected on the fog itself. As the fog clears, the high beams become more effective. Do sporadic checks to see if conditions improve.
Step 6. Don't skid
It is quite natural to move towards the center of the road when visibility is poor. Make sure you stay in your lane.
Step 7. Watch out for the animals
The wild ones are bolder in the fog because they are harder to see.
Step 8. Beware of frosts
In some climates, the fog is very close to the freezing point and can freeze in contact with cold surfaces such as asphalt! This causes ice sheets on the road.
Step 9. If you can't see, pull over
If the fog is too dense and the conditions too bad it is best to stop and wait. Turn on the hazard lights to show your location to other drivers.
Step 10. Use the right edge of the lane as a reference
It helps you to avoid oncoming cars and not to be blinded by their headlights.
Step 11. Get help
Don't be afraid to ask other passengers to work together to control other vehicles and probable obstacles.
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Step 12.
Advice
- Roll down the window and turn off the music while driving. This way you can hear traffic and important noises.
- When turning or braking, use the hazard warning lights for a long time. Always make sure that the cars close to you (in front, behind and to the sides) know what you are about to do.
Warnings
- Never stop in the middle of the road!
- Don't use the high beams as they reflect in the fog and blind you temporarily!
- Don't drive if you can't see.
