Safety tips: Driving in fog

Safety tips
Driving in fog

Fog can develop anywhere in the UK and Ireland and there are 6 types: radiation, advection, evaporation, valley, upslope and freezing fog.

The most common type of fog is radiation fog. It forms at night and dawn when there is no incoming radiation from the sun, so the air cools to the dew point under clear skies. If the ground is moist, it is easier for the fog to form near the surface becoming denser.

Fog can really obstruct visibility, making driving particularly dangerous. Check out our tips below to consider if you are driving in foggy conditions.

Use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres.

Reduce your speed.

Use wipers and demisters.

Beware of other drivers not using headlights.

Check your mirrors before you slow down, then use your brakes so that your brake lights warn drivers behind you that you are slowing down.

Increase your distance from cars in front of you. Rear lights can give a false sense of security.

Beware of animals on the roads.

However, don't use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced, as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights.

Weather & Radar editorial team

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