During autumn, heavy, impenetrable fog frequently settles over the roads during early morning and late evening hours, especially near rivers and low-lying areas. In these conditions, visibility can drop instantly from 300 metres to a dangerous 20-30 metres.
Unfortunately, many drivers do not know how to use their lighting equipment correctly, which often results in decreased visibility and increased danger to themselves and other road users.
Why Using High Beams in Fog is a Mistake
A driver’s natural reflex in poor visibility is to switch on the high beams. However, fog is not just darkness; it is composed of millions of microscopic water droplets suspended in the air. The high beam light is directed straight ahead at eye level, causing these droplets to reflect the light back like a mirror, creating a blinding white wall in front of the driver.
The correct solution: Use your dipped headlights in combination with your front fog lights. Fog lights are positioned low in the bumper and cast a wide, flat beam of light across the road surface, cutting underneath the fog layer and illuminating the lane markings.
Practical Tips for Driving in Fog
- Increase your distance: Double your usual following distance compared to clear conditions.
- Override 'Auto' lighting: During the day in bright fog, your vehicle's light sensor may 'think' it is bright enough outside, leaving only the front LED daytime running lights active while the rear remains completely dark! Always switch to manual dipped headlights in fog.
- Listen to the traffic: At junctions or in extremely poor visibility, crack open your side window. The sound of approaching vehicles is often a warning sign long before their lights become visible.
If you find yourself in trouble or your car has veered off the road due to poor conditions, our 24/7 recovery service is ready to assist. We arrive on the scene with full hazard lighting to ensure maximum safety for you and your vehicle.