Foggy weather poses a significant hazard for drivers in the UAE, increasing the risk of fatal accidents. To ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers on the road, it is crucial to follow the tips outlined below.
- Put your fog lights on
Fog lights are a mandatory feature in various regions around the globe and can be found in the majority of contemporary vehicles. It is important to activate them while driving in foggy conditions and to deactivate them once the fog has dissipated, as leaving them on can potentially blind other drivers.
Typically, the switch for fog lights can be found on the indicator stalk or near the headlight controls. For more specific details on how to operate your car’s fog lights, refer to the vehicle’s manual.
- Drive only if it’s necessary
If you encounter dense fog while driving, it is important to prioritize your safety above all else. In such conditions, it may be necessary to inform your boss that you will be arriving late.
To stay informed about the foggy weather conditions, consider tuning in to traffic reports on the radio. It is advisable to keep the volume at a minimum so that you can still hear the sounds of your surroundings while staying updated on the road conditions.
- Stop your car at a service station
If you have already begun your journey and are encountering challenging driving conditions due to foggy weather, it is advisable to reduce your speed and seek refuge at the nearest service station. Additionally, it is recommended to notify your supervisor in advance that you have halted your journey and will resume your commute to the office once road conditions improve.
- Slow down your vehicle
During foggy weather, visibility is significantly reduced, making it unsafe to drive at speeds of 120km/hr. It is recommended to stay within your lane and maintain a speed limit of 50km/hr. In cases of heavy fog with extremely low visibility, it is crucial to reduce your speed to 40km/hr to ensure safety on the road.
- Always use dipped headlights
When driving in foggy weather, it is important to keep your headlights on and ensure that they are dipped. Avoid using your main beams, as they can be hazardous to oncoming traffic and cause glare for other motorists.
It is recommended to always have your car’s automatic headlights activated for added safety.
- Never drive with your hazard lights on
There is still confusion among many people regarding the acceptability of driving with hazard lights on in fog. While some drivers believe it makes them more visible on the road, it is important to understand that using hazard lights while driving is not recommended as it can actually increase the risk of accidents.
According to traffic regulations, hazard lights are intended to indicate to other drivers that a vehicle is stationary or to alert them to a road hazard or accident ahead.
If a driver behind you sees your hazard lights activated in foggy conditions, they may mistakenly believe that you have come to a sudden stop due to poor visibility. This can lead to dangerous situations as they may react by braking abruptly, potentially causing a collision. It is crucial to use hazard lights only when your vehicle is stationary or when there is a hazard on the road, and to avoid using them while driving in foggy conditions to prevent confusion and accidents.
- Switch the heater on inside your car
During foggy weather, condensation may accumulate inside your car, impairing visibility. To prevent this, it is advisable to keep your heater on, as it helps to inhibit condensation buildup and maintain clear windows.
- Turn off your radio
It is recommended to turn off the radio and crack open the car window slightly to be able to hear the sounds of passing vehicles. This will help you stay alert and aware of your surroundings while driving.
- Maintain a safe distance
Maintaining a safe distance from the car in front is crucial. If the driver ahead suddenly stops, there is a risk of colliding with their vehicle. It is advisable to keep a safe following distance to prevent accidents and ensure road safety.
- Avoid changing lanes
Take your time and only switch lanes when necessary. It is best to stay in the right lane to avoid potential dangers and reduce the risk of accidents.