As autumn changes to winter, the dangers of mist and fog are becoming more apparent; here are some handy tips from the Institute of Advanced Motorists on how to stay safe.
Clean and Clear – dirty windows can mist up quicker than clean ones so keep windows clean and use your wipers and car heaters to maintain good visibility.
Light and bright – use dipped headlights in foggy conditions and turn on your fog lights where visibility is reduced to less than 100 metres but remember to turn them back off when the fog lifts. Full beam lights are no good; they actually reduce your visibility.
Wash it off – use screen wash to remove dirt which the fog helps to stick to your windscreen.
Take a brake – ensure an appropriate stopping distance between you and the car in front, slowing down if necessary. This also prevents you braking suddenly and risking the car behind colliding with you.
Spot them if you can – take extra care to look out for pedestrians and cyclists who may be particularly hard to spot if wearing dark clothing. Reduce your speed to see them in good time.
Now you see me, now you don’t - In traffic queues the movement of the vehicles can cause the fog to clear to a degree within the queue. But, the driver at the head of the queue does not have that benefit – don’t be tempted to rush past other cars (especially on the motorway) to then suddenly find a wall of fog at the front of the queue.
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