What are fog lights used for?
Driving in fog and using fog lights can be tricky to get used to at first, with a large portion of drivers not even knowing where their fog lights are.
Fog lights are used to cut through the fog and give you more visibility on the road. As well as helping you to see the road more clearly, they also help other drivers to see you better.
Using your fog lights at the right times will help keep you safe on the road, but using them at the wrong times can get you in trouble and even land you a fine.
This guide covers the key information about your fog lights:
- How to turn on fog lights
- When to use fog lights
- Rear Fog Lights
- Other handy tips for driving in fog
How to turn on fog lights
The symbols you're looking for to turn on your fog lights are in the centre of the steering wheel stalk in the image above.
Depending on the make and model of your car, you may have a button/dial on the dashboard, or a switch on the steering wheel stalk. If you're not sure where the fog lights are in your car, you can refer to your specific owner's manual for your car.
To turn on your fog lights, in most cars, you will need to have the dipped headlights on before you can switch on the fog lights.
When to use fog lights
Fog lights should be used when your visibility is less than 100 metres, roughly the length of a football pitch. They should also only be used when it's actually foggy or there's heavy mist, as the lights are very bright and can dazzle other drivers if used incorrectly.
If you use your fog lights at the wrong time, you could also face a roadside fine.
Rear Fog Lights
Unlike front fog lights that emit a yellow or white light, rear fog lights are red and are used to indicate your position on the road to other drivers behind you.
Accidents often happen on the road during foggy weather, as it's often difficult to tell when cars are moving or have stopped on the road, making the rear fog lights really important to help prevent this.
This is also why it's important to keep a bigger braking distance between you and other cars when driving in foggy conditions.
Some other handy tips for driving in fog
Alongside using your fog lights, here are some other tips you can implement to make your journey through fog much safer.
- Reduce your speed and only drive as fast as the conditions will allow.
- Increase the braking distance, so you have more space between you and the car in front.
- Pay attention to your surroundings and stay alert.
- Watch out for other drivers that aren't using their fog lights.
Stay safe on the road
Fog can create unsafe driving conditions and lead to accidents on the road, so it's important to make sure you know how to turn on your fog lights and when to use them.
It's also important to get your vehicle serviced regularly, so you know your fog lights are in proper working order.
For more driving guides and general motoring information, head over to our blog section, which is regularly updated with a wide variety of automotive tips and insights.
