How to drive in fog

According to the Highway Code, all drivers MUST use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres (328 feet). Drivers may also use front or rear fog lights but they MUST switch them off when visibility becomes clearer.

It is a legal requirement for all cars to come with rear fog lamps, however, front fog lamps are an optional extra that can help illuminate the road ahead whilst also making you more visible to other drivers.

Though, that's not it when it comes to driving in fog, which is a top cause for accidents on the road.

If you are driving in fog you should:

• always use vehicle lights as required: dipped,low beam headlights, as using high beams can result in poorer visibility due to the light reflecting off the fog
• focus on keeping yourself in your lane and avoid drifting which can be a natural tendency when visibility is poor
• beware of other drivers not using headlights
• beware of 'freezing fog', as fog that is near freezing point can lead to black ice on roads
• check your mirrors before slowing down, as well as use your brakes so that the brake lights warn drivers behind that you are slowing down
• be able to pull up well within the distance, particularly when on motorways and dual carriageways because of faster travelling vehicles
• use your windscreen wipers and demister to allow for clearer visibility
• keep a safe and reasonable distance behind the vehicle in front, whist being aware that rear lights can give a false sense of security
• stop in the correct position at a junction that offers limited visibility while also listening for oncoming traffic. Do not hesitate when you are sure that it is safe to emerge, as this could leave you directly in the path of approaching vehicles
• avoid accelerating to get away from a vehicle which is too close behind you
• avoid coming to a complete stop when on the road, even if you cannot see. Instead, find a safe place to pull over and turn off your lights to avoid confusing other motorists