Many towns surrounded by rural areas are prone to fog. Low lying mist can be patchy in nature and rarely consistent. Driving lessons in fog can present challenges. Here we look at what problems driver trainers need to address when teaching in fog.
The most hazardous type of fog forms quickly and is patchy in nature. Roads that presented no hazards can become difficult to negotiate in a relatively short length of time. If such conditions have not been encountered before this can make new drivers nervous. It is a big mistake to use the car in front to navigate. Following the car in front does not leave sufficient time to brake if the leading vehicle stops suddenly. If the tail lights of the leading vehicle are visible then this is a sign you are driving too close. Follow at a distance where you could stop safely if surprised.
New pupils tend to guide themselves in fog by using the centre line of the road. This is a reasonable course of action but care must be taken to drive on the correct side of the road, not actually driving on the centre line which creates danger by putting the vehicle in close contact with on coming traffic, resulting in front end collisions. Wherever possible be guided by reflective studs on the surface of main roads or reflective marker posts on the verge of rural roads.
Dipped beam headlights are the correct choice for driving during fog. The fog lights are to be used only when visibility is less than one hundred metres. Many drivers tend to use fog lights in light mist but this just causes dazzle to other drivers. Main beam headlights are not advisable in fog as they practically blind oncoming traffic. As the beam is simply reflected back by the fog they do not offer optimum vision for the driver. Dipped beam headlights will offer the best possible visibility without dazzling oncoming traffic.
In rural areas fog can be really dense presenting danger when turning at junctions that don't have road markings. It is worth opening the windows during driver training so that learners can hear traffic approaching before being able to see it. Maintaining pressure on the foot brake when stopped will keep the brake lights on making the car more visible to vehicles approaching from behind. The horn is rarely used by driver trainers but using it at junctions in fog especially if it is dark can have real safety benefits, giving instant warning of your presence over quite a large distance. Good for warning traffic approaching from around a bend.
There is no need for instructors to cancel driving lessons owing to fog and mist even at night. The conditions offer many opportunities to teach learners safe driving for life after passing the test.
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