... driving in fog
DO:
Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits the
conditions.
Make sure the full lighting system of your vehicle is
turned on.
Use your low beam headlights. High beams reflect off the
moisture droplets in the fog, making it harder to see.
If you have fog lights on your vehicle, use them, in
addition to your low beams. They could save your life.
Be patient. Avoid passing, changing lanes and crossing
traffic.
Use pavement markings to help guide you. Use the right
edge of the road as a guide, rather than the centre line.
Increase your following distance. You will need extra
distance to brake safely.
Look and listen for any hazards that may be ahead.
Reduce the distractions in your vehicle. For example,
turn off the cell phone…your full attention is required.
Watch for any electronically operated warning signs.
Keep looking as far ahead as possible.
Keep your windows and mirrors clean. Use your defroster
and wipers to maximize your vision.
If the fog is too dense to continue, pull completely off
the road and try to position your vehicle in a protected area from other
traffic. Turn on your emergency flashers.
DON'T:
Don't stop on the travelled portion of the road. You
could become the first link in a chain-reaction collision.
Don't speed up suddenly, even if the fog seems to be clearing. You
could find yourself suddenly back in fog.
Don't speed up to pass a vehicle moving slowly or to get away from a
vehicle that is following too closely.
REMEMBER:
- Watch your speed. You may be going faster than you think. If so, reduce speed gradually.
- Leave a safe braking distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Remain calm and patient. Don't pass other vehicles or speed up suddenly.
- Don't stop on the road. If visibility is decreasing rapidly, pull off the road into a safe parking area and wait for the fog to lift.
- When visibility is reduced, use your low beam lights.
Before you drive, and during your trip, check weather forecasts and road reports. If there is a weather warning or reports of poor visibility and driving conditions, delay your trip until conditions improve, if possible.
See also:
