Fog creates dangerous driving conditions and has been the cause of a high number of accidents and fatalities. Fogs usually form at the surface of the earth. Fog is really just low lying clouds made of tiny water droplets suspended in the air.
Fog creates a huge visibility problem for drivers. When its foggy outside ask yourself a few questions before getting in the car to drive. Do you really need to go or can it wait until the fog lifts? You will be surprised to find that you can usually wait.
In those rare cases that you have to drive, then here are some tips for driving in the fog.
• Turn your headlights on to low beams. DO NOT turn on your high beams headlights – this will reflect more glare due to the water particles, making it more difficult to see.
• Drive slower than normal.
• Don’t overdrive your vision.
• Use your windshield wipers to keep the water from impairing your vision further.
• Are you breathing heavy because of the situation? Then turn on your defroster to keep the inside windshield clear.
• Increase the following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Remember if there is water on your windshield then the roads are probably wet as well.
• Use the white line on the right side of the road as a guide. If the line on your right is yellow, then get back over that line as soon as possible. You’re in the wrong lane of traffic.
• If the fog lifts, don’t get overconfident. The fog can return quickly.
• Make yourself visible by turning on your flashers. Other drivers will appreciate this. If you can see a vehicle in front of you, follow them just far enough to see their taillights or brake-lights. By doing this you can be alerted to possible hazards.
• If you can see to make a turn then brake and signal earlier. This gives a warning to the car behind you.
• Passing another car in the fog is not a wise decision. If you need further explanation go back to the questions you asked yourself before leaving and stay home.
• Never drive with cruise control engaged.
• If you sill can’t drive at least 20 to 25 miles per hour then find a safe place to wait it out.
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