Dangerous Driving in Dense Fog

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Warm temps and melting snow has brought a cloud to the ground this week in Wisconsin, here’s ways to navigate through it safer.

First things first, most cars are equipped with fog lights. This is the time to use them. Only have the low beam fog lights on. Using your car’s high beams can severely decrease your visibility even more. Because the stronger beams will reflect off of the water particles in the fog and make it appear denser.

Also, use your windshield wipers, they will help keep the glass clear, even if it is not raining.

Turn on your defroster. Fog occurs in high humidity with a lot of moisture in the air, so now is a good time to flip that defrost function on. This will help dry off the inside of your car’s windows.

Drive slow, keep a lookout for other vehicles. Never slam on your brakes and keep a longer following distance. Now I know, this may be your first instinct as you may not feel comfortable losing sight of others, it’s safer. The time between you and other cars should be 9 to twelve seconds in dense fog.

If you feel disoriented, pull over to the side of the road and put your hazard lights on.

A Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect through noon Friday. But the fog will return and linger through the overnights and as long as the snow is melting in portions of the state. Which should be accelerated, with temperatures hitting the 40s and over a 0.50″ of rainfall expected.