While North Carolina occasionally gets walloped by significant snowfalls, it is not a common winter driving hazard here in the South. But there are other weather conditions that are more dangerous and common here in our state.
One of these hazards that makes driving dangerous and contributes to the number and severity of wrecks is overnight fog. Learn how you can drive more safely when foggy conditions are present.
What’s the biggest danger?
When fog descends over highways and bridges, it obscures the drivers’ vision. They may not be able to see the road ahead beyond their headlights. They might not know if they are driving straight into a multi-car pileup on an interstate.
Foggy weather can also cause vehicles to cross the center line into oncoming traffic or to veer onto the shoulder and risk striking pedestrians or running off into ditches.
How to drive better when it’s foggy
It may seem counterintuitive, but never use your bright lights when fog occurs. Bright lights induce a glare that can make discerning traffic ahead impossible.
Low-beam headlights illuminate only what is right ahead of the car or passenger truck while also indicating stopping with the red tail lights glowing to traffic behind them.
Slowing down saves lives
Sometimes fog conditions get so bad that the highway department may shut down roads or bridges in counties where fog is at its worst. If not, drivers should reduce speed and be mindful of the dangers of getting into car wrecks due to low visibility.
Leave extra space ahead
While tailgating the cars ahead is not recommended in any weather conditions, it is particularly dangerous on foggy days and nights. Make sure to leave at least a car space, if not more, between you and the driver ahead of you when it’s foggy.
Injured in a car accident?
Be sure to preserve your right to seek damages from at-fault drivers who caused or contributed to your collision.
