Fog, Rain and Spray: Check Your Lights Before You Drive

Fog, Rain and Spray: Check Your Lights Before You Drive

Over the last week or so we've seen particularly foggy, wet and murky conditions across the area, with significantly reduced visibility at times. Current forecasts suggest this may continue for the next few weeks, so please take extra care when travelling.

A common issue we continue to see is drivers relying on daytime running lights (DRLs) or auto-light settings, believing all vehicle lights are illuminated. On many vehicles, DRLs only light the front of the vehicle and the rear lights may not be on at all, making the vehicle difficult to see from behind in poor conditions.

A few reminders:

✅ Turn on your headlights whenever visibility is reduced, even during daylight hours.

✅ Fog lights are not just for fog. Highway Code Rule 236 advises they should be used when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see more than 100 metres (328 feet) ahead. This can occur in heavy rain, spray, mist, snow or fog.

✅ Remember to switch fog lights off when visibility improves. Using front or rear fog lamps unnecessarily can dazzle other road users.

✅ Slow down and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front. Stopping distances are significantly increased on wet roads.

✅ Keep windscreens, lights and mirrors clean and clear before setting off.

✅ In fog, use dipped headlights rather than main beam, as full beam can reflect back and further reduce visibility.

✅ If your vehicle has automatic lights, check they have activated properly and that your rear lights are illuminated.

A few extra moments spent checking your lights and adjusting your driving to the conditions could prevent a collision. Please drive to the road, weather and visibility conditions, not simply the speed limit.