Driving in a fog is difficult for you and other people as well and it is known to be dangerous.  This is mainly because technically you can’t see what is happening in front while driving. Dense fog can cause unsafe road conditions, particularly when it is extremely dense or accompanied by severe weather. Each year, fog leads to serious traffic collisions and a great number of accidents as drivers struggle to see the road ahead. 

In a recent news report from October 23, 2023, in Louisiana, highlighted by NBC News, a super fog incident led to a collision involving approximately 158 vehicles. Tragically, this event claimed more than six lives, emphasizing the importance of understanding how to navigate dense fog safely.

Tips To Drive Safely In Dense Fog: 

There are ways you can drive safely in a dense fog. The following are those tips. 

Turn on your low-beam headlights and fog lights: 

In dense fog conditions, it’s essential to use low-beam headlights instead of high beams. While high beams generally enhance visibility, in foggy situations, they can reflect off water particles, making it harder to see. Low-beam headlights provide better illumination without causing glare or reducing visibility.

Drive Slow:

You need to slow down, even if you know your way around a particular road. The fog could hide a collision ahead, leaving you with little time to react. So it’s much safer to drive slowly. 

Use Your Four-Way Flasher: 

Activating your four-way flashers (also known as hazard lights) is a smart move in dense fog. Turning on these lights helps increase the visibility of your vehicle, making it easier for vehicles approaching from behind to see and notice you. 

Use Your Wiper and Defroster: 

Using your vehicle’s defrost feature is a good idea when there is fog due to high humidity. This will help you remove moisture from the inside of your car’s windows. It is best not to wipe your car windows with a rag or your clothing as it can distract you from the road and cause blur. 

Keep An Eye On Other Vehicles’ Lights:

The red lights of vehicles in front of you are easier to see compared to the white lights of oncoming traffic.  

Don’t Change Your Lanes Unless it is Crucial:

When driving in dense fog, it’s advisable to avoid unnecessary lane changes. Be considerate of the cars ahead of you, even if you prefer a slower pace. Changing lanes should be done cautiously and only when absolutely necessary. 

Slamming On Your Brakes:

If you find yourself in an especially thick fog, the instinct to stop and assess the situation might kick in. However, it’s crucial to consider that other vehicles behind you are dealing with the same limited visibility. Abruptly stopping in the middle of the road during reduced visibility increases the risk of being rear-ended by an approaching vehicle.

Instead of slamming on your brakes in the midst of dense fog, look for a safe parking area to pull over. Once off the road, promptly activate your hazard flashers to alert other drivers to your presence.

Why is it Crucial to Know These Safe Driving Tips?

Navigating through dense fog poses significant challenges for drivers, creating a hazardous environment where visibility is severely limited. The inability to see what lies ahead can lead to unforeseen events and potential dangers on the road. However, it’s crucial to recognize that there are effective ways to drive safely in dense fog. If you happen to be involved in an accident due to the negligence of someone else, make sure to speak with an Oklahoma City injury attorney for legal guidance and support.