As the UK is blanketed with a thick layer of fog, it's crucial drivers are up to speed with how to keep themselves and other drivers safe. Driving in the fog can be tricky, but cars are built with fog lights to make it easier. However using them at the wrong times can land you with hefty fines and can be breaking driving laws.
If you have limited visibility while driving and think you need to turn on your fog lights, the RAC states that they should only be used when you can't see past 100 metres (328 feet), which is roughly the length of a football pitch. The Highway Code also tells drivers to use fog lights when appropriate.
Meanwhile if your car is in an accident and fog lights weren't used, it could invalidate your insurance. The RAC said: "Use your common sense. If the fog is so severe that you're struggling to see other vehicles, switch on your fog lights but don't keep switching them off and on again, as this can confuse other drivers.".
Rule 236 of the Highway Code states: "You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.". This guidance seems pretty straightforward, but some may leave their fog lights when visibility has improved, unaware that it poses a risk to other road users. As well as posing a safety risk, the offence can result in a £50 fine, although it is not endorsable.
The most important are the rear lights, and the RAC noted that front fog lights should only ever be used in "severely restricted conditions". Under the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989, it is prohibited to use front or rear fog lights to dazzle other drivers when visibility is not reduced or when the vehicle is parked. It's important to know that you should also never use fog lights in rain or drizzle, as this could also lead to fines.
