HARRISBURG – PennDOT is reminding motorists that fall weather patterns often produce foggy mornings, which can create dangerous driving conditions.
Drivers should use their automobile’s headlights any time they encounter adverse weather conditions, including fog, to improve visibility and make their vehicle more visible to others.
When driving in fog, motorists should use low beam headlights since the high beam setting creates glare and reduces visibility. Motorists are reminded that state law requires headlights be on when wipers are in use.
PennDOT crash statistics underscore the dangers associated with driving in foggy conditions. More than 960 crashes and 13 fatalities were reported in foggy weather in 2006. September, December and January saw the highest number of crashes with a peak of 275 in January. Along with foggy conditions, rain and fog together were reported in 382 crashes and four fatalities last year.
To help motorists navigate safely during inclement weather, PennDOT recommends the following:
– Reduce speed,
– Increase following distances,
– If driving in very dense fog, get off the road as soon as you can safely do so and put your hazard lights on to help other motorists see your vehicle, and
– Do not start a trip if the fog is so dense you cannot see — wait for the fog to lift.