How to make your way through the fog

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week he is advising motorists on how to drive in the fog:

Before setting off, clean your windows and windscreen and ensure all your lights are working.

Let others know you are likely to be delayed.

When you’re ready to leave, switch on the dipped headlights. Only use front and rear fog lights where visibility is less than 100 metres.

Use your windscreen wipers on an intermittent setting to clear the fine mist that collects on there.

Slow down and keep enough distance between yourself and the vehicle in front. Make sure you can stop safely within the distance you can see clearly.

Avoid relying on the vehicle in front as a guide to hazards ahead. Fog makes it more difficult to judge how hard vehicles are braking and they might be slow to react.

Brake gently but earlier than usual so your brake lights warn drivers behind.

At junctions, wind the window down and listen for traffic.

Take high-viz clothing in case you have to leave the car.
 
Elstow said: “Don’t underestimate the effect fog has on your perception of speed. Adjusting your driving to the weather conditions will help you to become a better driver.”