Fog is a meteorological phenomenon that makes driving significantly difficult. Its main disadvantage is that it impedes visibility, but to this we must also add that it usually brings moisture to the surface, which in turn worsens grip. Therefore, it is imperative that we take certain precautions when driving through areas with thick fog banks.
The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) recommends taking the road markings as a reference to keep us in our lane, or other vehicles, always without forcing the movement. Likewise, another key guideline is to leave a greater frontal separation distance from the vehicle in front of us. We must not forget that the poorer visibility and the wet road will increase our stopping distance.
When we consider it necessary, it is advisable to leave the road until the fog clears. On the other hand, it is not a good idea to stop on the shoulder, unless we have no other choice, in which case we must sign it properly. And, of course, when the fog is dense it is necessary to use the fog lights. But we must know how to use them correctly, both for our safety and to save ourselves a fine.
Fog lights, despite their name, are not exclusive to foggy situations, but may also be necessary in the event that there is rain, snow, smoke or dust in the environment. But we have to know when it is appropriate to turn them on, when we should opt only for the front ones and when we can also use the rear ones.
The Civil Guard has shared an infographic on its X social network account (formerly Twitter) to clarify drivers’ doubts.
First of all, when we are in an area of ??fog, whether light or thick, we can turn on the front fog lights, if our vehicle has them. If the fog is thick, we can opt for the rear ones, but never if the fog is light.
In light rain we do not have to turn on any, although both the front and rear ones are convenient in the case of heavy rain. In the case of snow, we can turn on the front ones with both weak and strong snow, while the rear ones are reserved for strong snow. Finally, when there is smoke or dust in the environment, we can turn on the front ones, reserving the rear ones only if it is thick.
Now, discard the idea of ??turning them on just in case or leaving them off in case of doubt, because if you do not wear them when you should or keep them on in unnecessary situations, you could be fined 200 euros, although it does not entail withdrawal of points on the driving license.
