Driving in fog
Fog seems more like a cloud as it is formed when temperature dips very low and invisible water vapour in the air condenses to form suspended water droplets. Fog can be patchy, dense or light, leading to visibility problems, which in turn can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Usually fog appears during early morning hours during start or end of summer in the UAE.
Some safety rules to be followed when driving in foggy conditions are:
- Drive slowly and at a speed that suits the conditions.
- Ensure that full lighting system of your vehicle is turned on, and use low beam headlights as high beams tend to reflect off the moisture droplets in the fog leading to less visibility. In case your vehicle has fog lights, use them along with using low beams to improve visibility.
- Avoid changing lanes and overtaking, and remain patient. Make use of pavement marking to guide you. It is better to stick to the right-edge of the road as a guide, rather than take the centre line.
- Maintain a distance from the vehicles ahead of you, as the extra distance can help to brake safely if required.
- Keep your eyes and ears open for any hazards that may be ahead. Reduce distractions like music or cell phone and focus completely when driving.
- Always keep a watch for operated warning signs if any, and keep looking as far ahead as possible.
- Windows and mirrors should be clean, and use defroster and wipers to maximize your vision.
- In case you are unable to drive due to dense fog, pull completely off the road and park your vehicle in an area away from other traffic, turning on your emergency lights.
- Before you begin your drive, check for forecasts and road reports if there is warning or reports of poor visibility and driving conditions, and if so, delay your trip until conditions improve.
- Do not brake suddenly in the middle of the road, as vehicles behind you may not see you in time. Also do not pick up speed suddenly, coz as the fog seem to be clearing, you may find yourself in fog suddenly again. Do not try to overtake any vehicle.
- Also, do not continue driving if the fog is too dense and visibility is highly reduced.
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