How to drive safely in fog. 20/11/13


Hundreds of car accidents every year are caused by drivers who don't take enough care when driving in foggy conditions.

These conditions can lead to some of the worst accidents because reduced visibility means that drivers can fail to stop in time when there is an accident ahead, often leading to multiple collisions.

There are some simple rules outlined in the Highway Code that will enable you to stay safe whilst driving in foggy or misty conditions.


When approaching fog


If you are approaching a foggy area, the first thing to be aware of is that the density of a patch of fog can vary considerably from one moment to the next.

This means that it is important to gradually slow down as you approach, then maintain this speed rather than constantly speeding up and slowing down as the visibility changes.


When driving in fog


  • Do not use full beam when driving in fog, it does not improve your visibility and can dazzle other drivers

  • Only use your vehicles fog lights if visibility is seriously reduced and they can make it difficult for drivers behind you to see your brake lights working

  • Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front. Be prepared that drivers in front may brake suddenly

  • Be aware that some drivers may not have their lights on

  • Use your windscreen wipers and demisters

  • Do not accelerate to keep away from a car behind you. It is their responsibility to keep a safe distance

  • Check your mirrors before you slow down, and use your brakes gradually so that vehicles behind can see your brake lights

  • Take extra care at junctions. Do not hesitate in a position that puts you in the path of an approaching vehicle

  • Ensure your fog lights are turned off when visibility improves significantly



No need to claim on your insurance

Anyone who has been involved in a road accident has the right to choose who repairs their vehicle. If you were responsible for the accident you were involved in, the company that insures your vehicle would normally deal with your accident claim.

However if you were not at-fault for the accident, you can choose to either claim on your own insurance policy or make a claim independently of your insurer. To find out more call 02392 484 244 and we will be happy to help.

We and our partners help thousands of people make independent accident claims. Our service enables motorists to get the help and assistance they need to resolve their accident related issues, with the costs being recovered directly from the at-fault driver on your behalf.

No excess to pay

Unfortunately even if an accident was not your fault, your insurer will almost certainly require you to pay your excess before any repair is started on your car.

This money should of course be recovered by an insurer at a later date, but with our service - you do not have to pay it at all.

By using our independent claims service, you are not making a claim on your insurance policy and so you will have no excess to pay.

Receive a comparable replacement hire vehicle

Not all insurance policies will include a replacement hire-car for you to use if yours is damaged and unroadworthy. In fact it is typically an 'optional extra' on your policy.

Other policies may offer a 'courtesy car' but this is often just a 'basic' saloon or hatchback which may not be suitable for your needs.

Car Call and its partners will provide a comparable replacement vehicle as part of our service. This means we will endeavour to supply a hire-vehicle that similar to your own in terms of its type, make and engine size.

So whether you drive a small hatchback or a prestige sports car, we will look to provide a similar hire-vehicle that suits your needs.

Manufacturer approved vehicle repairs

If you have been involved in a car accident, the last thing you want to have to worry about is the quality of the repairs to your car. We have a UK wide network of partner approved Accident Repair Centres available to all of our customers.

Many of our accident repair centres are have manufacturer approvals for specific brands, so if you require a manufacturer approved repair centre, simply tell your personal claim handler and they will ensure your vehicle goes to an approved repairer.

Want you vehicle repaired by a specific garage? No problem, we can alternatively use a repairer that you specify.

Legal Assistance

Our partner solicitors provide legal assistance as part of our service. They specialise in motor claims related issues, so you can be assured of the best possible advice and assistance.

They issues they can assist you with include:

  • Recovery of the cost of the replacement hire-vehicle
  • Recovery of the cost of uplifting your damaged vehicle
  • Recovery of all repair costs
  • Recovery of the cost of damaged of personal items
  • Seeking financial compensation for an injury