6 Tips For Driving in Fog
Inclement weather is one of the top reasons car accidents occur. 16% of vehicular deaths occurred from inclement weather, like fog. Many times, people continue to drive normally in bad weather. This creates a dangerous situation for the driver and others.
Over the years, we have seen a terrible rise in multi-vehicle crashes. A Missouri interstate saw a 47-vehicle pile-up which resulted in 6 deaths. The highway was shrouded in dense fog, and some drivers were driving too fast for the conditions. Fog can be deadly, and knowing how to drive safely when you encounter fog could save your life.
Here are the top 5 tips to drive safely in fog:
- Reduce Speed
- Increase Distance
- Keep Windshield Clear
- Watch The Lines
- Listen To Surroundings
- Eliminate Distractions
- Turn On Lights
Reduce Speed
Although it may seem obvious, slowing down may save lives. It is important to remember the posted MPH speed is the maximum speed permitted under ideal conditions. In bad weather conditions or in low light, drivers should reduce their speed accordingly. In fog conditions, you must be able to stop within the distance you can see.
Increase Distance
Allow extra distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. You need more response time should you need to stop suddenly.
Keep Windshield Clear
Since fog prevents clear vision, it is imperative to keep your windshield clean. Fog and mist can muddy your windows without you realizing it. It may help to run the defrost setting inside your car to keep the windshield from fogging up on the inside.
Watch The Lines
The best way to not deviate from your lane is to watch the road lines. Keep your eyes just ahead of your car and follow the lines to stay safe. Painted lines should be present on both the right and left sides of your car. The lines are designed to guide cars and keep them safe on the road; especially in fog.
Listen To Surroundings
Since your vision is impaired by fog, use your ears too. Open your windows enough to hear your surroundings. Turn off any music and listen for anything abnormal. Using your hearing can help prevent accidents. You can hear other cars around you before you make driving decisions.
Eliminate Distractions
Turn off the radio, put your phone down, and simply pay attention to the road. Eliminating all distractions greatly improves your safety whilst driving in the fog. Learn more about distracted driving.
Turn On Lights
Headlights aren’t only for night driving. Turning on your car’s lights makes your vehicle more visible to other drivers – not only from the front but in the back too. Your car’s head and tail lights make it easier for other drivers to see your car in fog, rain, and snow. You might be able to see without your headlights, but turning them on makes sure other drivers can see you.
Driving In Inclement Weather
Each year, there are almost 6 million car crashes. Weather is a factor in 21% of vehicle crashes. On average, 418,000 people are injured in weather-related crashes annually. Many times, weather-related crashes are caused by bad drivers.
Injured In A Car Crash?
Car crash injuries can range from minor to severe. Although fog can be a factor in a car crash, fog does not cause accidents. Bad drivers cause accidents.
If you were injured in a car crash caused by another driver, you may have a legal claim. You shouldn’t be stuck with injuries and medical bills because of someone else’s bad decisions. Contact Kane & Silverman for a free consultation with an injury attorney.