What are the precautions for driving in heavy fog?
2 Answers
Precautions for driving in heavy fog: 1. Use lights correctly: When driving in fog, it's best to turn on all the lights on the car (except for high beams). If driving on the highway or in very thick fog, also turn on the hazard lights. Avoid using high beams in foggy conditions because high beams shine upwards, and the light scattered by the fog can create a blinding white haze in front of the car, impairing visibility. 2. Use the horn for alerts: While constantly honking the horn during normal driving is not only disturbing but also impolite, using the horn in foggy conditions can alert pedestrians on the road that a car is approaching, prompting them to take caution. 3. Avoid slamming on the brakes: Refrain from slamming on the brakes because fog makes it difficult to judge distances. Sudden braking can make it hard for the vehicle behind to gauge the distance, potentially leading to a rear-end collision. The best way to avoid emergency braking is to drive slowly and maintain a longer distance from the vehicle ahead. If emergency braking is necessary ahead, gently press the brakes several times in succession to control speed, effectively alerting the vehicle behind to pay attention.
When driving in foggy conditions, I always have to be extra careful. The key is to control the speed, slowing down to half the normal speed if necessary, because visibility may be only a few dozen meters. It's essential to turn on the fog lights, but never use the high beams, as the reflection in the fog can make it even harder to see. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial, keeping at least double the usual following distance. Inside the car, use the defogger and windshield wipers to prevent the windshield from fogging up. Stay calm and don't rush; if the fog is too thick, pull over to a safe spot and wait, turning on the hazard lights to alert other drivers. Also, check that all the car lights are working properly, and brake gently on slippery roads. Remember, it's better to be late than to take risks by overtaking.
