Ford Motor Company give advice for driving in heavy rain
Drivers must switch off their fog lights when visibility improves or could face heavy consequences including penalties. The Highway Code states drivers ”must switch then off when visibility improves” meaning this is a direction rather than a recommendation.
The Code says this is because the lights can “obscure your brake lights” and even “dazzle” other road users.
Drivers are warned no penalty points will be issued to drivers but fines are highly likely.
The rule could catch drivers out as many may not be aware of when conditions have improved enough to switch the lights off.
This can be particularly difficult when fog continues to be present throughout the day as some officers may have different considerations on when visibility has significantly improved.
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Legally, visibility is said to be reduced when motorists cannot see for more than 100 metres or 328 feet.
However, it is not a legal requirement to use fog lights even if cloud cover is particularly thick and drivers are struggling to see other vehicles.
A statement from MoneySuperMarket warned drivers should never use their fog lights if it was clear enough as this could create a road safety risk.
They said: “Driving in fog is no fun at all as visibility can be reduced to just a few feet.
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“So, all cars are fitted with at least one rear extra light to make them more visible in fog. Some cars are also fitted with front fog lights.
“Although it’s not a legal requirement to use your fog lights if you’re driving in fog, it’s much safer to so that other motorists can see you.
“Never use your fog lights when visibility is clear though, especially at night when other drivers can easily be dazzled.”
LV has urged drivers to prepare their vehicle before attempting to drive in foggy conditions.
Road users should make sure their mirrors are fully clean and check they have demisted their front and rear windscreens.
Drivers have been urged to fill up their windscreen wash so wipers can be used to keep your screen clear.
Motorists have been urged to take a high-vis jacket and warning triangle in the event of an accident or breakdown.
This will make you more visible in foggy conditions which can prevent many motorists from seeing you in an emergency.
LV says drivers should check their mirrors and slow down as soon as they approach a foggy patch to ensure they keep their car under control.
They have urged drivers to keep a safe distance between the vehicle in front and warned that rear lights can give a false sense of security.
Motorists should be aware of road users who are not using headlights and should check there is ample braking space between them and other vehicles around them.
They say that fog can hit the UK at any point so drivers should check weather reports before attempting to drive.
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