The fog, and driving in the fog, is one of the biggest fear for most of us, as one of our most important senses, our vision, is limited, which is not only confusing, but also impairs the ability to sense speed and the sense of distance. Driving in fog can also be learned and is less frightening if properly prepared. Useful tips from László Csörgő, the lead trainer of drivingcamp driving technique center.

The preparations

The first and most important precaution in fog is to ask ourselves if we really should start out. If we can wait a little while the fog rises, it is better to wait on the basis of peace and leave in clear weather so that we can. However, if we have to start anyway, look around in the car before we get behind the wheel. Check the lights and signaling equipment to make sure all beacon and lights are working, if they are clean - they can literally be life-saving in poor visibility conditions.

Let’s start!

Basic rule: DO NOT use the reflector in fog! The steam particles reflect light, so we do more harm than good with it, and we won’t see as much as we do anyway. We use the fog lights based on the principle of seeing and to be seen, as they are at the bottom of the car, so the road is lit, not the mist particles.

In fog, the windows and windshields may start to be more humid, degrading our view anyway. Let’s open the window a little to reset the humidity inside the car.

Slowly, slowly!

Let's go at a slow and steady pace and eliminate all distractions, yes, the radio as well. Because our vision is limited, we rely more on our other senses, such as our hearing, and a slightly opened window not only removes the vapor, but we can also listen better.

Speed ​​is important! Don’t push or force it, especially if you suddenly get into a clean zone! The fog usually comes down and draws down into the valleys. Therefore, if the image clears upwards, do not speed up suddenly, because we can run into another fog and it is difficult to slow down from there, in fact, sudden braking or shifting can confuse those driving behind us. Keep in mind that after a foggy part, frost often comes, so it’s not worth going fast either, because we don’t see the ice, and the trouble is done when we race. Also observe the correct tracking distance.

A little trick: in the fog, the left turn is one of the hardest maneuvers, so if you have to do something like that, feel free to use the hooter once, giving a signal to the other drivers. So let’s not use the bagpipe continously, “Here I go, everybody just pay attention,” let’s just sign a little.

Let's relax!

Driving in fog is like swimming in milky stream, it’s hard to estimate distance and speed, which is why we have to focus terribly, which is tiring. Moreover, whiteness itself is tiring, as if to hypnotize a person. We can avoid this by looking at the space, not just a single point, so we will be less tired.

And of course let's stop to relax and rest! Don’t use up your entire energy reserve and don’t stand aside at the last minute! If we leave for a rest, it is worth stopping every 45 minutes, although the fog usually comes in spots and does not last long, but if you do, be sure to take time to rest as well.

We wish you a safe drive and take care of each other on the roads!