Reduced visibility
There is a reason your car is equipped with fog lights. Reduced visibility makes all road users extremely vulnerable – and it must therefore be stressed that journeys should be undertaken only when necessary. Familiarising yourself with your car's front and rear fog lights is a must. However, you should never assume that these alone are enough to restore your sense of sight.
1. When travelling with fog lights active, be aware of other motorists. You should only use your fog lights in the more extreme cases of fog, so as not to dazzle other road-users. For less critical cases, dipped headlights should suffice.
2. Be aware of other road users. Fog which sits low to the ground can obscure road markings, and drivers may begin veering out of lane, or even into oncoming traffic. Reduce your speed, and pay attention for headlights in the distance.
3. Leave enough space between yourself and the vehicle in front, and reduce your speed according to the density of the fog. Always be prepared for sudden braking or unexpected hazards emerging from beyond your depth of focus. Do not attempt to follow the rear lights of the vehicle in front of you, as they themselves might leave the road accidentally.
4. Should you find yourself at a junction, with lateral vision restricted, it may help to roll down your window and listen for oncoming traffic. Remember that not all vehicles will make a revving sound – bicycles for example.
