While driving, there are situations that trigger automatic reactions from drivers. Examples include when it rains and we back off the gas, or in the dark we pay closer attention to the side of the road due to unlit cyclists and pedestrians. But reflex-like reactions are not good in all cases, such as when the fog descends.
The days are quite foggy these days, so it’s worth reviewing what not to do in fog.
1.- Don’t take it lightly
Although sometimes the fog does not seem dense, it breaks up and up, never be fooled by the relative improvement in visibility. Due to the inhomogeneity of the fog, we can run into denser sections at any time. That is why it is important to drive with extra attention when the fog has descended.
2.- But let’s not overreact
As soon as it’s foggy, many people tend to immediately, drastically reduce speed and turn on all the lights. However, this can be just as dangerous as being careless. Always adapt our decisions to the density of the fog! If, for example, the reduction in visibility is only moderate, it is sufficient to use the dipped headlights, while in more serious cases it may be necessary to use the fog lights.
3.- Conscious decisions
The driving support systems of modern cars are not always able to handle foggy weather correctly (often, by the way, in heavy fog, the computer also says that the driving support systems are not available). In such cases, it is worth switching the automatic emergency light to dimmed so that the rear position indicators are also activated. You must not drive without front and rear lighting, even in light fog.
4.- Don’t stick to the one in front of you
Adequate following distance is especially important in fog. This not only serves safety, but also facilitates adaptation to dynamically changing visual conditions. Outside of populated areas, we always increase the distance from the person in front of us.
5.- Don’t stay in the inner lane unnecessarily
On a multi-lane road with little traffic, do not “holiday” in the inner lane, even if you slow down because of the fog. Let’s keep to the “Keep to the right!” rule, since those driving faster don’t expect the cars jamming in the inner lane.
6.- In the city, don’t behave as if you were on a highway
It is not necessary to immediately turn our car into a Christmas tree by turning on all the fog lights. Depending on the traffic density and speed, decide whether it is necessary to use the fog lights. And in city traffic jams, it’s unnecessary to bother others with the rear fog lights.
7.- Calm instead of impatience
Fog not only impairs visibility, it can also make the road more slippery. In this case, it is especially important to avoid sudden maneuvers and excessive speed. If we see that there is a more inexperienced car, there must be a car in front of us, instead of climbing into his “butt” and making him nervous, we should be patient with him and help him get around.
8.- Clean windshields and lights
In the fog, every little thing matters, which can further worsen visibility. Keep the windshield and lights clean.
Driving in fog depends not only on routine, but also on the ability to adapt to the given situation. If we pay attention to these basic tips, we can protect not only ourselves, but also other road users.
Source: www.vezess.hu
