Fog
Driving in Fog
Fog is one of the most hazardous driving conditions. A single vehicle collision can quickly turn into a multi-car pile-up if drivers are travelling too close together. Serious injuries and fatalities are common — but preventable.
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Before You Drive
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Ask yourself: Do you really need to travel? If not, delay your journey or use public transport.
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If you must drive:
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Check that all your lights work and are clean.
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Clean your windscreen and number plates.
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Allow extra time — journeys in fog take longer.
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Remember: If you can see the rear lights of the vehicle ahead, you may be too close to stop safely.
Using Lights
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In daylight: Use dipped headlights when visibility is seriously reduced. Fog lights can also be used if fitted.
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At dusk or night: Use dipped headlights — not main beam, as it reflects off the fog and reduces visibility further.
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Rear fog lights: Use only when visibility is below 100 metres (328 feet). Switch them off when conditions improve to avoid dazzling other drivers.
If your headlights are on “auto”, switch them on manually in fog.
Driving Safely in Fog
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Slow down and check your speedometer regularly.
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Be able to stop within the distance you can clearly see ahead.
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Use wipers and demisters to keep your view clear.
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Leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front.
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Avoid using main beam headlights.
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Do not rely on the tail lights of the vehicle ahead to guide you — this gives a false sense of security.
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Be alert for emergency vehicles or incidents ahead.
Fog Patches
Fog density can vary. Avoid speeding up when visibility temporarily improves — it can become dense again very suddenly.
Junctions and Overtaking
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Overtaking in fog is extremely dangerous. Avoid it.
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At junctions, wind down your windows, turn off your radio, and listen for approaching traffic.
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Indicate early and keep your brake lights on when stopped to alert drivers behind — but switch them off if a vehicle stops directly behind you.
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Use your horn if necessary, and do not pull out unless you are certain it is safe.
Note: Motorcycles can be especially difficult to see in fog due to having only one headlight and tail light.
Parking and Breakdowns
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Avoid parking on the road in fog. If you must, leave your sidelights on (not dipped or main beam).
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If you break down, move off the road if possible, warn other road users with lights or hazard signals, and call for assistance immediately.