We’ve all had that moment. You’re driving along like any other day and suddenly, the road ahead turns into a soft grey blur. Trees vanish. Tail lights disappear. It feels like you’ve stepped into a cloud with no way out. Dense fog has a way of sneaking up on you, and when it does, it demands your full attention.
As a tow truck company, we’ve seen what can happen when drivers aren’t prepared for these conditions. That’s why this guide isn’t just about what to do—it’s about what not to do. Because sometimes, what you avoid can be even more important than what you do.
Let’s talk about the mistakes that could land you in trouble—and how to steer clear of them.
Don’t Use Your High Beams
It might feel like turning on your high beams would help you see better, but they actually make it worse. The intense light reflects off the tiny water droplets in the fog and creates a blinding wall of white. Instead, stick to your low beams or fog lights if you have them. They’re aimed lower and will give you better visibility without the glare. Think of it like shining a flashlight through smoke—you want soft, focused light, not something that bounces right back into your eyes.
Avoid Tailgating—Seriously
This is one of the most common mistakes we see. In dense fog, visibility is severely reduced, and following too closely is a recipe for disaster. We once assisted a driver who rear-ended a small SUV because he couldn’t see the brake lights until it was too late. Always increase your following distance. You need way more time to react when visibility drops, so back off and give yourself space.
Don’t Just Stop in the Middle of the Road
It’s understandable—fog can be scary, and when you can’t see where you’re going, stopping feels like the safest option. But stopping in a traffic lane is incredibly dangerous. Other drivers might not see you in time, and a collision could happen in seconds. If you really need to stop, pull completely off the road, turn on your hazard lights, and stay in your car until it’s safe to continue or help arrives.
Don’t Rely on GPS Alone
GPS can be a lifesaver, but it’s not infallible. In thick fog, some drivers make the mistake of following GPS directions without checking their surroundings. We had a call from someone who ended up on a dirt track miles from the main road because they trusted the GPS too much. Use it as a tool, not a lifeline. Watch for road signs, stay alert, and trust your instincts.
Don’t Assume You’re the Exception
Even if you’re a confident driver, fog is one of those conditions where caution beats confidence every time. One customer told us, “I’ve driven in worse,” just before ending up nose-down in a ditch trying to avoid a possum that darted onto the road. Reduced visibility means slower reaction times, so take it easy. Turn off distractions, focus on the road, and give yourself the best chance to respond safely.
Avoid Unnecessary Lane Changes
When you can barely see the road markings, weaving from one lane to another is risky business. Stick to your lane and use any visible road markings—like the solid white line on the left side—as your guide. Lane changes in fog are like guessing games. And when it comes to driving, guessing isn’t your friend.
Don’t Forget the Basics—Car Maintenance Matters
Before heading out in foggy weather, make sure your vehicle is ready. We’ve had customers call us because they couldn’t see through a smeared windshield or had one working headlight. Fog amplifies every small issue. Keep your windows clean, check your lights, make sure your wipers work well, and don’t forget to top up washer fluid. Little things make a big difference when visibility is already working against you.
Don’t Drive Without a Backup Plan
If the fog gets worse, do you know where you can pull over? Do you have fuel? A charged phone? It sounds simple, but many drivers get caught without a plan. We once towed a car that ran out of fuel on a backroad because the driver didn’t realise how long the fog would delay them. Always give yourself options. Knowing where the next service station or rest stop is can take a lot of pressure off.
Fog doesn’t just affect how far you can see—it changes how you think behind the wheel. It slows everything down, and that’s exactly what you should do too. Slow your speed, slow your decisions, and avoid the temptation to rush through it.
From where we sit—often in the driver’s seat of a tow truck helping someone who didn’t expect their night to end in a breakdown or a bump—these little choices really do add up. Fog is temporary. Smart driving decisions can last a lifetime.
So next time the fog rolls in, remember: it’s not about how fast you get there. It’s about making sure you get there at all. Stay safe out there.
If you are in Coolaroo, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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