Your guide to driving safely in freezing fog
Written by Aleesha McMullin | Published on: January 8, 2025 | Categories: On the road
The weather outside is frightful, especially when freezing fog rolls in. Don’t worry, though! You don't have to be a stunt driver to stay safe. Here are some practical driving tips to keep you safe if you’re out on the road during freezing fog.
What is freezing fog?
During the cold, winter months, water droplets within fog clouds can become supercooled, meaning they stay liquid, even below freezing temperatures. When these droplets hit something, like your car or the road, they freeze instantly, creating a thin, slippery sheet of ice and less-than-ideal driving conditions.
Top tips for driving in freezing fog
Keep these rules in mind to keep you and your passengers safe on the road:
- Slow down. Speed is your enemy when there’s ice on the ground. Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going, and don’t be afraid to drive well under the speed limit if conditions are bad. Remember, it takes longer to stop on icy roads.
- Increase your following distance. You should always leave enough space between you and the car in front of you, but it’s even more important in freezing fog. Double or triple your normal following distance to ensure you have enough room to brake or react to unexpected situations.
- Use your headlights (but not your high beams). It can be tempting to use your brights when visibility is low, but it makes things worse in fog. The bright light reflects at you, creating a white wall. Instead, turn on your low beams to cut through the fog more effectively. Also, make sure your taillights are on so others can see you, too.
- Use fog lights (if you have them). If your car has fog lights, now is a good time to use them! They are usually mounted low on the front of your car and designed to cut through the fog. However, don't use them if your vehicle has "automatic" lights, as fog lights are only intended for use in low visibility, not simply when it's dark.
- Watch out for black ice. Black ice is super tricky. It's an icy patch that’s so thin it looks like wet pavement. Always assume that any dark-looking spot on the road is ice and proceed cautiously. It’s often found in areas shaded by trees or bridges.
- Brake gently. Never slam on your brakes in icy conditions! This can cause your car to skid. Instead, use light and gentle pressure. If your car does start to skid, ease off the brakes, and try to steer in the direction you want to go. If you’re uncomfortable with how your vehicle handles these situations, practice in an empty parking lot under safe conditions.
- Keep your windows clear. Make sure your wipers are in good condition and you’re topped up on windshield washer fluid to keep your windshield clear. Use your defroster to keep your windows free from frost and fog. It’s important to see as much as you can!
- Pull over if necessary. If the conditions get too bad, don’t be afraid to pull over and wait it out. Find a safe spot off the main road, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for the fog to lift. Before leaving the house, make sure your winter driving emergency kit is stocked up with blankets, water, and non-perishable food if you need to pull over for a while.
- Stay alert. Don't get complacent! It's easy to get comfortable and assume nothing will happen to you, but it only takes a moment to lose control. Turn off your radio, avoid distractions, and pay close attention to the road. It’s all about staying focused.
Driving in freezing fog isn't fun, but by following these simple tips, you can make the journey a lot safer. Take your time, stay alert, and remember, it's always better to arrive a little late than not at all.
Before you begin your next winter road trip, take a moment to brush up on your winter driving skills so you’re prepared for whatever snow, sleet, or ice mother nature may throw your way.
Share these tips on Facebook or Twitter to help other drivers safely navigate freezing fog, too.