Status: 27/09/2023, 12:41 p.m.
By: Susanne Herrenbrück, Vivian Werg
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In autumn, the number of traffic accidents increases. Fog and slippery conditions are often the cause. You can find out how to get through the dark season safely here.
Autumn weather is often uncomfortable and stormy. Fog and slippery roads in particular can contribute to an increased number of traffic accidents in the autumn season. According to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), serious traffic accidents caused by fog occur mainly in the last three months.
Fog conditions with visibility below 50 meters are classified as dangerous according to the Internet portal weather.com. From this point on, you should turn on the rear fog light and the fog lights. However, many drivers underestimate the risks. However, there are some indications and regulations that can provide more safety in poor visibility. There are also a few things to consider when using the high beam.
Fog and slippery roads: increased risk of accidents
Specific driving styles of other road users can test patience and occasionally lead to road accidents. Rear-end collisions in particular are widespread and, according to the Automobile Club Verkehr (ACV), they are among the most common types of accidents on German roads. New rules on driving licences are intended to increase safety on Europe's roads.
Fog and slippery conditions can be dangerous for drivers. © DALL-E/Susanne Herrenbrück
"Drive slowly, keep your distance and turn on the lights - these are the golden rules for autumn," says Andreas Müller, head of the traffic and technology department at ADAC Südbaden, according to a press release. Navigating in the fog requires a high level of attention and focus. To ensure a safe ride through the fog for motorists, they should follow these guidelines:
- Avoid distractions such as loud music or phone calls.
- Adjust your speed and keep enough distance. A simple rule is: the minimum distance is equal to the speed. This means that at a speed of 50 km/h, you should keep a distance of at least 50 metres from the vehicle in front.
- Refrain from overtaking.
- In case of heavy fog, it is advisable to orient yourself on the right-hand edge of the road and the delineators.
- To be more visible, motorists should manually activate the low beam.
- Periodically turn on the windshield wipers.
- Clean your headlights.
- During strenuous foggy driving, it makes sense to take a break when your eyes get tired.
- Source: ADAC, weather.com, ndr.de
Safely through autumn: rear fog light vs. fog lights
The ADAC points out strict rules for the use of the rear fog light. Experts emphasize that this may only be activated when visibility is less than 50 meters. When visibility is clearer, the rear fog lamp must be deactivated again to avoid dazzling the vehicles behind. Violations can be punished with a fine of 20 euros.
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There is often confusion among motorists regarding the use of fog lights. However, according to Section 17 (3) of the Highway Code, fog lights may always be activated when fog, snowfall or rain severely restrict visibility. As soon as visibility improves, the fog lights should be switched off again.
Editor Susanne Herrenbrück wrote this article and also used applications based on artificial intelligence (AI).
