As fall settles in, foggy mornings and early sunsets become more common—making low visibility a serious concern for drivers. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out for a weekend trip, driving in fog or dim conditions requires extra caution. Here are essential safety tips to help you stay safe on the road and reduce the risk of accidents this season.

Headlight Use: What You Need to Know

1. Use low beams in fog. High beams can reflect off fog, rain, or snow and actually reduce visibility. Low beams cut through fog more effectively and help other drivers see you.

2. Check your lights regularly. Make sure all headlights, taillights, and turn signals are clean and functioning properly. Dirty or broken lights can make it harder for others to see you.

3. Use fog lights if equipped. Fog lights are designed to illuminate the road directly in front of your vehicle. Use them in dense fog, but remember to turn them off when visibility improves.

Safe Following Distances

1. Increase your distance in low visibility. Maintain at least 4 seconds of following distance—more if conditions are worsening.

2. Avoid sudden movements. Brake and accelerate gradually to avoid skidding or startling other drivers. Smooth driving helps maintain control and predictability.

3. Watch for brake lights ahead. In fog, you may not see the vehicle in front of you until you're very close. Stay alert for brake lights and slow-moving traffic.

4. Stay in your lane. Use the painted road lines as a guide. Avoid changing lanes unless absolutely necessary, and never pass another vehicle in dense fog.

Fog and low visibility can turn a routine drive into a risky situation. By using headlights properly and maintaining safe distances, drivers can protect themselves and others on the road.