A simple rule of thumb for safer driving in fog is: halve your speed, double your distance. Easy to remember. Reduced visibility affects your reaction time, and by lowering your speed and increasing distance, you give yourself more time to respond.
A second important step is using the right lights. During the day, evening and night, your regular headlights (dipped beam) are sufficient.
When can I use fog lights?
For rear fog lights, the rule is: when visibility is less than 50 metres. But how do you judge that when you’re already driving? Here’s a handy tip: 50 metres is about the distance between two lampposts outside built-up areas. Or half the distance between two hectometre markers on the motorway. Can’t see that far? Then you can switch on your rear fog lights.
The rear fog lights symbol looks like this:
Front fog lights can be used when visibility is less than 200 metres, so when you can’t see two hectometre markers ahead on the motorway. Please note: unlike rear fog lights, front fog lights are not mandatory. Among our cars, the Skoda CITIGOe and our estate car (Golf Variant) have front fog lights. Other car types do not have this option. So don’t be surprised if other drivers don’t have their front fog lights on.
The front fog lights symbol looks like this:
When should you not use fog lights?
In all other situations than those described above (rear fog lights below 50 m visibility, front fog lights below 200 m), using fog lights is not allowed and may result in a fine. This also applies during heavy rain, snow or icy conditions.