How to drive in fog

The Highway Code has guidelines for driving in fog. They explain what you should do and shouldn’t do when it’s foggy.

Top tips for driving in fog:

• Use dipped headlights, wipers and demisters.
• Use fog lights when you need to.
• Beware of other drivers not using headlights.
• Only drive as fast as conditions allow.
• Slow down so you can stop in the distance you can see clearly.
• Allow 3 seconds instead of 2 between you and the car in front.
• Check your mirrors before you slow down.
• Open your window to listen for traffic at junctions if you can’t see.

What you shouldn’t do when driving in fog:

• Don't rely on automatic lights – they might not come on in fog.
• Don't rely on daytime running lights alone – they only light the front.
• Don’t tail another car’s rear lights - it can give a false sense of security and it's dangerous.
• Don't speed up to get away from a vehicle that’s too close behind you.

Remember that when it’s foggy, it can be harder to tell if other vehicles are moving. Many accidents happen because drivers don’t realise that the car in front of them has stopped. That’s why it’s safer to slow down and leave a bigger stopping distance.

If it’s foggy or misty, the roads might also be wet, which means it could take longer to stop.

Fog lights and the law

Fog lights can be helpful when conditions are very misty or foggy. But you could be penalised if you use them at the wrong time. The Highway Code states:

“You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced (see Rule 226) as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.”

Never use fog lights when visibility is clear. If you do, you could be given a Fixed Penalty Notice with a £50 fine.

Can you use fog lights instead of headlights?

No, you should never use your fog lights in place of your headlights. If one of the bulbs in your headlamps is blown, make sure you get it replaced as soon as possible.

Perform regular car maintenance checks before you start your journey. That way, you’ll spot any problems with your lights before you get caught in the dark.