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The recommended guide to driving in fog

   November 12, 2024
The recommended guide to driving in fog


It is very foggy in Glasgow these days, which often creates a moody atmosphere. However, it is an ideal time to light candles and enjoy a relaxing movie. Personally, if you don't have important activities outside the home, I recommend staying inside.

Foggy days are perfect for curling up in a blanket, lighting some scented candles, and enjoying a hot cup of pumpkin spice tea. If you have to go out, stay alert and stay off the road. Use less-traveled pedestrian routes that are close to highways. Drivers don't see very far, even if cars have fog lights.

For any motorist, one of the worst conditions is driving in fog. Thick fog greatly obscures vision, making it difficult to see potential dangers, estimate distances, or even differentiate between stationary vehicles. These comprehensive tips will allow you to safely face foggy weather.

Understand the difficulties of foggy conditions

Fog can seriously affect both visibility on the road and that of other cars. Visibility can sometimes be reduced to just a few meters, making it difficult to estimate speed or know if the car in front is stationary or moving. This reduced visibility height increases the likelihood of accidents; Therefore, your driving behavior must change.

Basic tips for safe driving in fog: Use dipped headlights, windshield wipers and defrosters.


When driving in fog, always switch to low beam headlights. High beams reflect off fog, causing glare and even more limited vision. Keep your windshield clean by running the wipers and defrosters.

Turn on the fog lights as necessary.

Designed to cut through fog, front and rear fog lights improve your car's visibility to others. Turn them off when circumstances improve to avoid dazzling other vehicles; Use them if visibility drops below 100 meters.

Change your pace and increase your following distance.


Drive at a slower pace than usual due to the possibility of fog affecting your ability to judge speed. Leave a space of at least three seconds between you and the vehicle in front instead of the usual two. This greater distance gives more time to react to sudden stops.

Avoid relying solely on automatic lights.

The automatic headlights may not turn on when it is foggy, especially during the day. Make sure the lights are turned on manually to remain visible to other drivers.

Stay alert at intersections.
If you have limited vision at an intersection, open your windows to listen for vehicles. This can allow you to identify approaching cars that you may not be able to see.

Mistakes made when driving in fog

  • Avoid following other vehicles too closely.
  • Especially if you rely on the car in front to help you, following too closely can make you feel falsely safe.
  • Stay far enough away to prevent them from crossing each other.
  • Avoid accelerating to escape from those following you closely.
  • It can be tempting to speed up if a car is too close behind you. Rather, maintain a steady, safe speed and let them pass if possible.
  • Never rely solely on daytime running lights.
  • These lights only illuminate the front of your car. To avoid rear-end incidents, make sure your taillights are also on.

How to prepare your vehicle for fog when driving

Make sure your car is in top shape for foggy conditions before you start driving.

  • Clean your windows and lights; Dirt and grime will help to further obscure your view.
  • Check the windshield, fog lights, and headlights for perfect clarity.
  • Check batteries and fuel levels. A particularly risky situation could be running out of gas or having a breakdown in fog.
  • Check that your car is in condition for the trip.
  • Check that all lights are operational. Make sure your fog lights are working properly as they will allow other cars to see you.

Do all cars come with fog lights?

Of course, it is mandatory for all cars to have rear fog lights! It is important to note that not all cars come equipped with front fog lights, as they are not mandatory.

The function of fog lights: when and should we use them?

The purpose of fog lights is to improve visibility in heavy fog. Here is a basic guide:

  • Mounted low on the car, the front fog lights point downward to illuminate beneath the fog. They illuminate the road without dazzling.
  • The rear fog lights have the same power as the brake lights, but they are bright red lights. They help drivers behind you detect your car in low visibility situations.

When is the best time to use them?

Turn on the fog lights if visibility is less than 100 meters. Remember to turn them off when conditions are better to avoid confusing other drivers or generating unnecessary glare.

Legal advice on fog lights in the UK

Incorrect use of fog lights could result in fines:

The Highway Code advises against the use of fog lights unless absolutely necessary; They should only be used when vision is greatly reduced (less than 100 meters). In clear conditions, using fog lights can result in a £50 fine.

You should never replace your fog lights with your headlights. If a headlight bulb blows out, replace it immediately as soon as you can!

In short, first priority: security


Driving in fog requires caution. When varying your speed, using appropriate lights, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, always put safety as a top priority. Fog and wet road conditions can also increase stopping distances, so be prepared to slow down even more.

These rules can help you navigate foggy circumstances with confidence, ensuring a safer journey for other road users and yourself.

Photo by Matheus Bertelli



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