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Caught in the Cloud: 5 Tips for Driving in Fog

by Justin Metz on November 7, 2018

When it comes to weather conditions, fog is one of the most unpredictable. Your view can be clear one minute and cloudy the next. Because after all, that’s what fog is — a cloud on the ground.

If you’ve ever driven through dense fog, you know it can feel like you’re driving blindfolded. But while you can’t control the weather… you can control how you drive in unpredictable conditions like fog, rain, ice or snow.

So, here are five tips to help you drive safely through the fog:

  • Slow down. Traveling at a reduced speed will give you more time to react and minimize the potential for any impact. If you think you’ll be driving in foggy conditions, be sure to allow extra drive time to make it to your destination safely.
  • Brighten up. Turning on your headlights will help you see the road ahead, while helping others see you. And as their name suggests, fog lights also increase visibility by shining more light closer to the road surface. Just avoid using your high beams, which actually reduce visibility by producing glare.
  • Leave some space. Low visibility can lead to slower reaction times. Increase the distance between you and the vehicles ahead to help account for any sudden stops. 

    Related: Can you guess the real cost of a fender bender?

  • Follow the lines. In dense fog, you won’t always be able to rely on what you see ahead. If your visibility is limited, focus on the road markings to make sure you’re staying in your lane.
  • Pull over. If you can’t see in front of you, the best course of action may be to pull over. Turn on your hazard lights and pull off the roadway in a safe location, like a rest stop or parking lot. Then, wait until conditions improve. 

These driving tips can help you navigate the foggiest of situations. But it’s always important to have a clear view of your insurance coverage.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Your Auto Insurance

At Erie Insurance, our promise is simple: to be there when you need us. Whether taking the road less traveled or on your daily commute, you can count on us. So contact an ERIE auto insurance agent to make sure you’re prepared for the road ahead.

We’ve been treating people right since 1925. See what makes ERIE different.

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ERIE® insurance products and services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York).  The companies within the Erie Insurance Group are not licensed to operate in all states. Refer to the company licensure and states of operation information.

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