As we transition into the cooler seasons in Australia, fog becomes a common weather phenomenon that can significantly impact road safety. At Lessons2Drive Driving School, we understand the importance of equipping drivers with the knowledge and skills to navigate challenging road conditions like fog.

To ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road, here are some essential tips to drive safely when visibility drops:

1. Use the Right Headlights

Visibility is crucial in foggy conditions, so be sure to use your headlights.

• Low Beam is Best: Use your low beam headlights. High beams will reflect off the fog droplets, creating intense glare that actually reduces your visibility, making things worse.
• Fog Lights (if you have them): If your vehicle is equipped with front or rear fog lights, use them. They are designed to cut through the fog more effectively than standard lights. Remember to turn them off once the fog clears.

2. Slow Down and Leave Extra Space

Fog dramatically reduces the distance you can see ahead, which drastically reduces your reaction time.

• Reduce Your Speed: Drive at a speed that allows you to stop safely within the distance you can clearly see ahead (the visibility rule).
• Increase Following Distance: Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This extra space allows for better reaction time in case of sudden stops or emergencies. Use the two-second rule, or even three to four seconds in heavy fog.

3. Keep Both Hands on the Wheel

Maintain a firm, steady grip on the steering wheel with both hands (the 9 and 3 position). This is crucial for maintaining better control and stability of your vehicle, especially when navigating curves or dealing with unexpected hazards in reduced visibility.

4. Avoid Sudden Actions

Make all your inputs smooth and gradual. Sudden braking or sharp steering inputs can lead to loss of control, especially on wet or damp roads often associated with fog. Look further down the road than you normally would and use gentle pressure on the brakes and accelerator.

5. Pull Over Safely with Hazards On

If the fog becomes too dense and your visibility is severely impaired (meaning you can barely see the white lines or the car ahead), your safest option is often to pull over.

• Move Off the Road: Pull over to a safe location completely off the road or into a designated rest area.
• Use Hazard Lights: Once stopped, turn your headlights off and use your hazard lights to make your vehicle visible to other drivers who may be approaching slowly. Avoid stopping on the road or in a lane of traffic, and wait until the fog dissipates before resuming your journey.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enhance your safety and the safety of others while driving in foggy conditions. At Lessons2Drive Driving School, we prioritize equipping our students with the knowledge and skills to handle various road challenges.

Our goal is to prepare you to be a safe and legal driver in the shortest time possible.

Stay safe and legal on the road! Learn more with Lessons2Drive—book your lesson today! Team Lessons2Drive Driving School