​Driving in foggy conditions presents unique challenges, especially when following another vehicle. Proper use of your vehicle's lighting is essential for safety and compliance with Australian road rules.

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Understanding Fog Lights

Fog lights are designed to enhance visibility during adverse weather conditions such as fog, heavy rain, smoke, or dust. They emit a wide, bar-shaped beam of light with a sharp cutoff at the top, reducing glare that can reflect off fog or precipitation. This design helps illuminate the road surface directly ahead without causing excessive glare for other drivers. ​

When to Use Fog Lights

Australian road regulations permit the use of fog lights only under specific conditions:​

• New South Wales (NSW): Drivers are allowed to use fog lights solely in fog, mist, or other atmospheric conditions that restrict visibility. Once visibility improves, fog lights must be switched off. ​

• Queensland: Front or rear fog lights can be used if it's difficult to see other vehicles or objects due to poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog. Using fog lights in clear weather conditions, day or night, is prohibited. ​

Appropriate Lighting When Following Another Vehicle in Fog

When driving in foggy conditions behind another vehicle, it's crucial to use the correct lighting to ensure safety:​

• Low-Beam Headlights: Activate your low-beam headlights to maintain adequate road illumination without causing glare to the driver ahead.​

• Fog Lights: If your vehicle is equipped with fog lights, you may use them in addition to low-beam headlights during foggy conditions to improve visibility. Ensure that fog lights are switched off once visibility improves.​

• High-Beam Headlights: Avoid using high-beam headlights in foggy conditions, especially when following another vehicle. High beams can reflect off fog, causing glare and reducing overall visibility.

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Legal Implications of Improper Fog Light Use

Misusing fog lights can lead to penalties:​

• NSW: Improper use of fog lights can result in a fine of $112. ​

• Queensland: Using fog lights in clear weather conditions may attract a fine of $57 and one demerit point.

Best Practices for Driving in Fog

• Maintain Safe Following Distance: Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one ahead to allow ample reaction time.​

• Reduce Speed: Drive at a speed appropriate for the reduced visibility conditions.​

• Stay Focused: Minimise distractions and remain attentive to the road and surrounding vehicles.

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By adhering to these guidelines and understanding the proper use of your vehicle's lighting systems, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely and in compliance with Australian road rules.