Road users should pay attention to weather forecasts and general advice about driving conditions. If you must drive in foggy conditions, be sure to allow enough time for your trip. Before you set off, you should check that your car is in working order, and especially that all lights, including fog lights, are working properly and are clean.
The RSA also advises vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists to ensure they are highly visible to other road users by wearing high visibility clothing and using lights.
Other tips for road users include:
- Turn on the headlights and fog lights when visibility is limited
- When you enter the fog, check your mirrors and slow down. Apply your foot brake lightly so your lights warn drivers behind you.
- Do not drive toward the taillights of the vehicle in front (target fixing). This can give a false sense of security and you will be too close to brake safely.
- Watch out for other drivers who don’t use their headlights.
- Turn off distracting noises and open the window slightly so you can pay attention to other road users, especially at intersections and junctions.
- Carry a mobile phone, high-visibility waistcoat and torch in case of a breakdown or collision. In the event of a breakdown, park the vehicle well off the road, get out and stand well away from the roadside. Call the emergency services and do not try to stand or walk on the road.
- Beware of driving too fast as soon as visibility improves a little. In patchy fog, you may find yourself driving “blind” again just moments later.
- Remember to turn off your fog lights when visibility improves.
You can find tips for driving in bad weather on the RSA website under Severe Weather Tips or on the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages.
See also the RSA severe weather warning videos made in collaboration with Teresa Mannion:
