Drivers warned about mistake that could see them fined £50 in foggy weather

DRIVERS are being warned to only use fog lights when it really is foggy – or risk a fine.

The lights are handy when it comes to driving in dangerous conditions, but as obvious as it might seem, using them when it’s not necessary can land you in trouble.

Fog lights should only be switched on when visibility is less than 100 metres in front of your car.

In any other instance, the lights should be turned off, even if they are being used in to brighten up the roads in the dark

The main reason for this is that they can dazzle other motorists on the road and can also obscure your cars brake lights.

If you’re caught using fog lights when they’re not needed, you can risk up to a £50 fine.

The Highway Code rule 236 says: “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.”

Drivers who are struggling with visibility on the roads in dark conditions should have their headlights checked out.

Fog lights should not be used as a substitute to light up the roads.

They must also not be used when its wet weather conditions.

Safe trips for driving in fog

Only use your fog lights if absolutely necessary, which is when visibility is less than 100 metres.

Do make sure you assess the visibility of the fog.

If you decide not to turn the fog lights on and get into an accident, this could invalidate your insurance.

You should also drive at a slower pace through fog, as it’s harder to see any hazards or pedestrians.

Every driver will be in the same situation and struggling a little bit in the difficult conditions, so don’t worry you’re holding anyone up.

You should also try not to drive as close to the car in front of you as you usually might

Make sure you’re separated by three seconds instead of the recommended stopping distance of two.

You’ll also want to keep your windows as clear as possible.

Fog can cause condensation in your car ,so keep heaters on to de-mist any that may be impairing your driving.

Remember, driving with your windscreen fogged up could land you with a fine.

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You can get fined for flashing your headlights at the wrong time.