Driving in foggy weather can be challenging, and many drivers are apprehensive when having to make a journey where there is a chance of fog and mist on their route. Fog is more prevalent in autumn when the air is damp and cold, but it can occur at other times of the year, especially in rural and coastal areas.

The safest option is to postpone your journey if at all possible until the weather conditions improve. We at UKDPF understand that this is not always possible, so we have created a list of helpful tips for driving in fog.

Fog Lights

Use your fog lights and not your high beam headlights. High beam headlights can cause excessive glare in fog and should be avoided. All cars have rear fog lights, and some vehicles have front ones too. Your vehicle’s manual will advise you as to whether you have both.

The front fog lights are white or yellow and are visible through the fog but don’t create glare. The rear fog lights are red and allow any vehicles behind you to see you.

The fog light icon on your dashboard is of a lamp with two slanting lines. Before driving in bad weather, make sure you know what button to press for fog lights. You may not have used it often, and it’s better to know where it is before you begin your journey.

Kill Your Speed

Fog can arrive suddenly and without warning. If visibility decreases, it is essential to slow down. Fog can create an optical illusion that you are travelling more slowly than you think, so check your speedometer frequently.

Brake Sooner

Brake sooner and more slowly to give the vehicle behind you more notice and time to react to your actions.

Keep Your Distance

When driving in fog, sometimes it’s reassuring to have a vehicle in front to guide you forward. Unfortunately, concentrating on the rear lights of the vehicle ahead can sometimes give the illusion of improved visibility.

Fog also makes it difficult to determine the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front, so bear that in mind and allow a greater distance for braking.

Stay in Lane

Avoid changing lanes unnecessarily, as it can make it harder for other drivers to see you and maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and yours.

Check Your Automatic Headlights

The light can change drastically in foggy conditions, confusing the sensor that operates your automatic lights. Check that your headlights are on when needed.

Keep It Steady

When encountering fog, keep your speed down and take extra care, as damp and misty conditions can within seconds turn into thick fog while driving.

These safety tips have been brought to you by UKDPF, the UK’s No.1 Diesel Particulate Filter & Carbon Cleaning Company. We provide a convenient mobile service with a competitive price range. Our DPF cleaning packages start at just £199.

Call us today on 0330 133 2366 for a fast, free quote.