Fog and mist can be hazardous when driving. The AA have put together a guide for safe driving in fog and we have some of their top tips below. 

What are fog lights? 

Fog lights are extra front and/or rear lights on some vehicles that are designed to make it easier to see and be seen in foggy conditions. 

• Front fog lights are usually white or yellow lights which sit below your headlights and can cut through fog without causing glare. 
• The rear fog light is a red light, similar in brightness to a brake light, on the back of your car which helps other drivers see you. 

When should you use fog lights? 

Fog lights can help you to see and help other drivers see you if the weather is very misty or foggy. 

• The Highway Code says you must use headlights when you can’t see for more than 100m in front of you. 
• You can also use front or rear fog lights but this is optional. 
• You must turn fog lights off when visibility improves so you don’t dazzle other drivers. 

If you’re not sure, it’s best to use your common sense. You don't have to use fog lights, but your insurer might take issue if you're in an accident in poor visibility and they weren't on. 

How to drive in fog 

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

What you should do 

• 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: 

• 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.