Tips for driving safely in fog

Fog can creep up on you. It settles in quietly and covers everything in its path. It is not like a storm that announces its arrival with thunder. It really does sneak up on you. Whether it is light or thick, fog poses a danger on the road. It prevents you from having a clear line of sight and increases the chances of an accident occurring.

While you may not get a warning there will be fog when you need to drive, you can take control once you are on the road. If you run into fog, it is essential you know how to handle it so you can stay safe.

Fog safety tips

If you have no choice but to drive when it is foggy, you at least need to follow some fog safety driving tips from the National Weather Service. To begin with, fog means being more aware of your surroundings and paying attention to other vehicles on the road. Watch out for drivers who are not using their headlights, and make sure to turn on your own headlights, but never use your bright lights. Drive slower and stay within your lane. Sometimes the fog can obscure lines, so be diligent about paying attention to where you are on the road. Make sure you allow extra distance between you and the car in front of you. If the fog is very thick, turn on your hazard lights. If you can, pull off the road to a safe parking place.

Additional tips

J.D. Power offers some additional tips you will want to consider when driving in foggy conditions. You should never stop on the roadway except at stop lights and stop signs. Stopping in an unexpected spot can lead to crashes because other drivers will not expect you to be stopped there. If you have fog lights, use them. They were made to cut through the fog, enabling you to see better and for others to better see you.