Driving in Fog: Safety Tips for UK Drivers

Summary

• Slow down and increase your following distance: You need much more time to stop in fog.
• Use dipped headlights, not full beam: Full beam reflects off the fog and makes visibility worse.
• Only use fog lights when visibility is below 100 metres: Leaving them on in clear weather is illegal. See our winter driving guide for more safety tips.

Thick fog turns a normal drive into a nerve-wracking experience. Here is how to stay safe.

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Before You Drive

• Check the forecast: If thick fog is predicted, consider delaying your journey.
• Clean your windscreen: Inside and out. A dirty screen makes visibility even worse.
• Check your lights work: All headlights, fog lights, and rear lights should be working.
• Top up your washer fluid: Fog leaves moisture on your windscreen that mixes with road grime.

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Which Lights to Use in Fog

Condition	Lights to Use
Light fog or mist	Dipped headlights
Thick fog (visibility below 100m)	Dipped headlights + front fog lights
Very thick fog	Dipped headlights + front and rear fog lights
Fog has cleared	Switch fog lights off (leaving them on dazzles other drivers)

Never use full beam in fog. The light reflects off the water droplets and bounces straight back at you, making it harder to see.

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Driving Tips in Fog

1. Slow down: Drive at a speed where you can stop within the distance you can see.
2. Increase your gap: Leave at least 4 seconds between you and the car in front.
3. Use road markings: Follow the white lines on the road to stay in your lane.
4. Do not tailgate: Following too close gives you no time to react.
5. Do not overtake: Unless absolutely necessary. You cannot see what is coming.
6. Use your demister: Keep the windscreen clear inside. Use air conditioning to reduce condensation.
7. Listen for traffic: Wind down your window slightly at junctions to hear approaching vehicles.
8. Be patient: A foggy journey takes longer. Accept it and stay calm.

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Fog on Motorways

Motorway fog is especially dangerous because speeds are higher. Many multi-vehicle pile-ups happen in fog.

• Reduce your speed but do not brake suddenly.
• Use the cats eyes (reflective road studs) to guide you.
• If fog suddenly gets worse, put on your hazard lights briefly to warn drivers behind you.
• Consider leaving at the next exit if conditions are very bad.

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When to Stop Driving

If visibility drops so low that you cannot see the road ahead at all, find a safe place to pull over. A car park or service station is ideal.

Do not stop on the hard shoulder unless it is a genuine emergency.

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Final Thoughts

Fog is one of the most underrated driving hazards. It causes hundreds of accidents every year in the UK. Slow down, use the right lights, and leave extra space. Your safety is worth a few extra minutes on the journey.

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