How to Drive Safely in Fog: 11 Steps

Fog can impair your visibility while driving and make the road more hazardous. Here are 11 steps to help you stay safe and navigate through foggy conditions:
1. Slow down: Reduce your speed, as fog can make it challenging to see what’s ahead of you. Give yourself extra reaction time in case you need to brake suddenly.
2. Increase following distance: Leave ample space between your vehicle and others to reduce the risk of collisions and sudden stops.
3. Turn on your low beams: Utilize your headlights at lower intensity for better visibility, as high beams can cause glare by reflecting off the fog.
4. Use fog lights: If equipped, activate your fog lights to enhance visibility without causing glare.
5. Use turn signals early: Signal well in advance of making turns or changing lanes to give other drivers more time to react.
6. Stay focused: Keep your attention on the road and minimize distractions, like using a cell phone or adjusting the stereo.
7. Keep windows clear: Fog can increase humidity levels inside your car, causing windows to become foggy as well. Use your car’s defroster or air conditioning system to keep windows and mirrors clear.
8. Listen for traffic: Turn off the radio and roll down a window slightly to help you hear any oncoming vehicles or approaching traffic sounds.
9. Drive with caution at intersections: Approach intersections carefully, checking all directions before proceeding, as other drivers may not be able to see stop signs or traffic signals due to the fog.
10. Stay within sight of road markings: Keep an eye on road markings such as painted lines or reflective studs as your guide, but be cautious not to follow them too closely in heavy fog as this may lead you into a different lane.
11. Pull over when necessary: If visibility becomes too poor for safe driving, pull over slowly, turning on your hazard lights and parking as far away from the road as possible.
By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to stay safe and confident while navigating through foggy driving conditions. Always remember to adjust your driving style based on the severity of the fog and remain extra vigilant on the road.