How can I Drive Safely in Fog?

May 11, 2021

Weather plays a major factor in road safety. Inclement weather will often lead to a dangerous situation for an unprepared driver, but there are some weather conditions that make matters difficult for even the most experienced driver, such as fog. As warm weather brings moisture in the air, it is crucial that all drivers are aware of the dangers of fog.

Fog can severely inhibit a driver’s visibility and road awareness. When approaching fog, whether it is minimal or dense, there are a few safety tips a driver must keep in mind.

Be Prepared

Knowing when fog conditions happen is important. When the warm, moist air blows over cooler temperatures on the ground, the air cools, creating humidity and water droplets. This process essentially creates fog. Studying and understanding the weather conditions before driving helps prepare a motorist.

Slow Down

Fog limits a driver’s visibility, which then reduces their reaction time. Travelling at a slower speed can help a driver’s reaction time, especially if emergency braking is needed. Slow speeds also allow for a safe distance between other cars.

The ability to determine the speed and distance of an object is also diminished in fog. If a driver feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it is recommended to find a safe place to pull over and wait for the fog to either pass or lessen.

Use Vehicle Equipment Correctly

Vehicles come equipped with auto safety features, so when one is in a hazardous situation, it is crucial that they use their car’s equipment. A vehicle’s headlights should be turned on to increase visibility for other drivers. The headlights should remain on low beam, however, as high beams can worsen visibility. Light reflects in the fog, so using high beams intensifies the light and can blind the driver and other motorists.

Most vehicles come equipped with fog lights that should be utilized, as well as the hazard lights to warn other drivers. Additionally, fog is essentially moisture and can buildup on surfaces, so windshield wipers should be operating as well.

Weather-Related Car Accidents

Poor weather conditions can contribute to a car accident, but it is the motorist’s choice to drive in these conditions. Every driver is legally required to operate their vehicle safely without causing harm to others, regardless of the weather conditions.

If a car accident occurs, it is important to gather all of the facts. This means securing contact information and a police report, as well as any witness accounts. A police report may even provide details about the weather if it played a role in the accident. Contacting a lawyer who focuses on car accidents is also essential.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. Help Clients Injured in Weather-Related Accidents

Driving through fog is dangerous and should always be handled with caution. All drivers must have the ability to handle poor conditions in a safe manner. If you were injured in an accident because of another party’s negligence, then contact the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. immediately. Call us today at 215-569-9100 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Based in Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.