Driving in thick fog can be one of the most difficult and dangerous situations for any driver. Thick, foggy clouds not only obscure visibility, but can also distort perception, making it difficult to distinguish obstacles and determine distances. Such weather phenomena require a balance between preparedness, vigilance and caution.
If there is less than a 2,5 °C difference between the air temperature and the dew point, water vapour condenses into microscopic droplets of liquid suspended in the atmosphere, forming a mist. This can occur under a variety of conditions, including early in the morning, near bodies of water and during heavy rainfall. Although fog can vary in thickness, drivers are at serious risk in heavy fog conditions when visibility is less than 100 metres. Preparation is the first line of defence against the dangers of fog. Check weather forecasts for fog warnings before you set off. If fog is expected, consider postponing your journey until it clears, especially if it is not necessary. Make sure your car is in good roadworthy condition. Make sure all lights are working properly, especially tail lights, fog lights and headlights. Keep the windscreen, mirrors and windows clean to avoid additional distractions to visibility.
It is important to change your driving style when you are on the road. To give yourself extra time to react to unexpected challenges, reduce your speed considerably. Reducing speed also shortens stopping distances, which is important as poor visibility and slippery roads increase the likelihood of a collision. To avoid collisions, keep a greater distance to the car in front. As a general guideline, you should pass the car in front by at least five seconds. Another important element when driving in fog is to use the car's lighting correctly. Switch to low beam; high beam reflects the fog and impairs visibility, making them useless in fog. Use your car's fog lights if fitted. Their purpose is to illuminate the road ahead, even in foggy conditions. It is important to always have your headlights on, especially during the day, so that other cars can see you. Warning lights should not be used while driving as this may confuse other drivers.
Driving in fog requires more concentration. Turn off loud music and avoid conversations that could distract you to reduce distractions. Look carefully for any unexpected obstacles or changes to your route. Use the right-hand side of the road or any signs to stay in your lane. Take extra care at junctions and pedestrian crossings as visibility is severely restricted. Heavy fog can quickly create unexpected conditions. If you need to stop, make sure you do so in a safe place and out of the path of oncoming traffic. Stop on the side of the road, ideally in a rest area or parking area. Turn on warning lights to inform other drivers of your presence. If possible, avoid stopping on the road itself as this can cause accidents.
Many features in modern cars can be useful when driving in fog. Use all available driver assistance systems, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. But don't rely on these systems alone. They are a complement to cautious driving, not a substitute for it. It is very important to maintain both your physical and mental health. Driving in fog can be unpleasant, so try to keep a cool head. Take breaks if you feel stressed or tired. Getting to your destination safely is your top priority, even if it takes longer than usual. Be aware that not all drivers can be as cautious as you. Be prepared for unpredictable behaviour of other cars and prepare accordingly. If necessary, use your horn to signal to other cars that you are present, but don't use it too often as it may cause people to become alarmed. If you encounter an angry driver, avoid confrontations. Keep driving at a reasonable speed and allow such drivers to pass.
Driving in extreme fog requires patience, caution and planning. By understanding the characteristics of fog, changing your driving style, using your car's equipment effectively and staying focused, you can manoeuvre safely in these difficult conditions. Never forget that no journey is worth jeopardising your safety or the safety of others. The best solution is to choose a safe place to wait until visibility improves if the fog becomes too thick.