Driving Safely in Winter Fog

Winter is barely under way and in under month we've experienced it all! First the blizzard, then the subzero temperatures in December and now the hoar frost and fog in January. What can you say about blizzards and fog? Can’t see your hand in front of your face, thick as pea soup? Both works for either! Thank goodness for headlights and streetlights. Although it can be hard going even with them. It’s both beautiful and scary at the same time. And out in the country it can be much worse. Too bad some people don’t know you need to slow down and take your time when navigating in a blizzard and fog. Actually, fog can make it just as slippery as rain in winter. Be careful out there!

There are different types of fog that occur in this region during the winter, ice fog and freezing fog. Ice fog is made up of tiny particles of ice. It doesn’t stick to exposed objects since it’s already frozen, and it’s less dangerous to pedestrians and motorists. Freezing fog is quite literally fog that freezes on contact, it’s like walking into a big freezer that needs defrosting Freezing fog can cause black ice to form on roadways. Black ice is difficult to see and so particularly dangerous. If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.

Let’s face it, the more you know, the better your decisions will be—and that’s certainly true with winter driving. Pay attention to weather statements, check road reports and allow extra time to get where you are going or consider waiting until conditions improve.

Driving in winter conditions is always a gamble. If you must travel, drive at or below the speed limit, avoid sudden lane changes or braking, and allow more time than usual to stop. Make sure the headlights are on and use your low beams to avoid blinding other drivers. Always communicate your travel plans with someone and carry a winter survival kit.