While driving in heavy fog can be incredibly dangerous, it is, unfortunately, not always avoidable.
Thankfully, there are a handful of things you can do to help ensure your safety.
Dense or heavy fog can create hazardous driving conditions, especially when fog is combined with other types of severe weather, such as icy roads or snow or rain. The best and safest thing to do when you run into bad weather that causes unsafe conditions on the road is to pull over into a parking lot or otherwise safe area and wait until the fog clears. Unfortunately, that isn’t always an option, so we’re here to fill you in on the top tips for driving in heavy fog.
Continue reading to learn more.
7 Tips You Need to Know When Driving in Heavy Fog
Eliminate Distractions — One of the best things you can do when driving, especially in severe weather, is minimize your distractions. Put your cell phone on silent and tuck it away where you won’t be tempted to grab it. You may also want to turn down the radio so you can use your other senses to help you drive.
Slow Down — Driving at a slower speed will help you safely react since you can see the road ahead or other cars around you.
Rely On Reflectors and Lines — There are many twists, turns, and slight curves in the road that you may not anticipate in heavy fog. Use the roadside reflectors and lane lines to help ensure you stay in your lane.
Do Not Use Cruise Control — To maximize the control of your car, turn off cruise control.
Utilize Windshield Defrosters and Wipers — Control excess moisture and reduce glare on your front and back windshield by using your wipers and defrosters.
Turn Off Brights — Your high beam lights or your “brights” can make visibility in fog even worse. Instead, drive with low beams.
Give Yourself Space — To ensure you have enough time to react to any obstacles ahead of you, make sure to give yourself plenty of space and increase your following distance from other drivers.
Tips for Pulling Over in Heavy Fog
Always Use Your Signal — Just as you would in normal weather conditions, using your turn signals is essential and required by law. Drivers behind you might be using your taillights as their guide, so let them know you are pulling over by using your signals. When visibility is low, turn your signal on earlier than you typically would in normal conditions.
Get Away From the Road — When you pull off the road, make sure to pull way away from the road. If fog is dense, other drivers won’t likely see your car on the side of the road.
Use Your Hazards — Turning your hazard lights will let other drivers know you have stopped.
Contact Bear River Mutual Insurance
Whether you are driving in heavy fog or ideal weather conditions, it is essential to have good automobile insurance from Bear River Mutual Insurance. Our knowledgeable team can help you find an affordable plan to meet the needs of you and your family. We have three convenient locations throughout the Wasatch Front in Provo, Orem, and Salt Lake City. Contact us for all of your insurance coverage needs today.
