Fog is one of the most difficult conditions to drive in. Ensure you are prepared so you can carry out your journey safely, and allow lots of extra time for the trip.
According to the Institute of Advanced Motorists, you should:
- Clean your windows and windscreen and ensure all lights are working before you set off.
- When you’re ready to leave, switch on the dipped headlights.
- Use your windscreen wipers on an intermittent setting to clear moisture.
- Switch the heater or air-conditioning on and leave it running to keep the inside of the glass clear.
- Keep enough distance between yourself and the vehicle in front – make sure you can stop safely within the distance you can see clearly.
- Fog is not the same density all the time, it may get thicker – slow down if it does.
- Brake gently but earlier than usual so your brake lights warn drivers behind.
- Be aware that other vehicles may be travelling without their lights on, so extra care and attention is needed. At junctions, wind the window down and listen for traffic.
- Straining to see through thick fog will quickly make you tired so take regular breaks.
- Take high-viz clothing in case you have to leave the vehicle
“Don’t underestimate the effect fog has on your visibility,” Simon Elstow of the IAM said. “Adjusting your driving to the weather conditions will help you to become a safer and more confident driver.”
The Highway Code states that motorists may use front and rear fog lights when visibility is reduced to 100 metres, but they must be switched off when conditions improve to avoid dazzling the traffic and obscuring your brake lights.
