Fog. Sure there is plenty of beauty in it as it blurs landscapes and offers picturesque moments, such as watching the sun rise through a cloud of haze; but would you say the same thing when you’re on the road trying to navigate your way through patchy areas of white cloud? Probably not. In fact, it typically comes out of nowhere and can come at the worst time possible especially as a truck driver, en route to a specific job site. It can cause issues with visibility and can quickly make your drive a dangerous one if you are not careful.
Depending on the density of the fog, it’s possible you could face challenges with even seeing past the hood of your truck. Not only that, when you can’t see past the hood, you can bet it’s also extremely difficult to see the taillights of the car in front of you, all of which can impact your safety on the road.
So what can you do from a precautionary viewpoint to help you navigate low-visibility conditions to your next destination?
Truck drivers need to adjust their driving habits according to the conditions; specifically, speed, to stay safe on the road. Let’s take a look at some tips to keep in mind next time you encounter foggy weather conditions on the job:
- Decrease your speed even if you are legal halotestin online in australia flexao na well familiarized with the road. Remember that there is always that risk that the fog could be “hiding” a collision right before you. If you were to encounter such a circumstance, you simply wouldn’t have enough time to react accordingly. Never drive quicker than your vision, reaction, and stopping distance allows.
- Pay close attention to roadside highway reflectors used as guides to determine where the roads are likely to curve in front of you.
- Of course, you’ll want to make sure your windshield wipers and defrost button are used in when the situation calls for it, both of which will help in maximizing visibility.
- Use your low-beam headlights and fog lights for proper visibility even during daylight hours. High-beam headlights fail to penetrate thick fog, which means they will be useless and potentially cause worse issues for sight.
- This may go without saying but watch and follow all traffic signs and warnings pertaining to fog.
- Be sure you are watching other drivers appropriately in case they have not turned their lights on.
- Use your four-ways to give other drivers the opportunity to see your vehicle.
- Be aware that there could be a possibility of vehicles on the side of the road. Headlights or taillights ahead don’t always provide a clear indication of where you are situated on the road.
- Tune in to traffic reports for updates on road closures, weather conditions or accidents.
- Refrain from switching lanes or passing other vehicles unless you have clear vision and it is safe to do so.
- If you need to pull over, put your hazards on right away. To avoid stopping on the side of the road try to locate a parking lot area that is safe to stop at instead.
- Be sure you have adequate fuel supply! You don’t want to be stuck on the side of the road in bad weather without fuel. This simply adds even greater stress to an already stressful situation.
Reschedule Your Trip if Able
- We know how critical and time sensitive many jobs are, but if it is at all feasible during heavy fog, it may be best to pull off onto a rest area or truck stop and rest until the fog has dissipated.
Always Be Alert
Fog isn’t always difficult to drive in, but for several truck drivers it can make for a stressful and difficult commute. Truck drivers should use their best judgement with these tips to stay safe when driving through fog and other low-visibility conditions.
Regardless of the weather at hand, you should always take your time and obey all traffic laws when driving in order to protect yourself and the other drivers out on the road.
At Roma Fuels, we work with a variety of fleets including buses, transport, cement, gravel, food distribution, and industrial. If you’re considering changing your fleet fueling supplier, why not give our team shot? Our professional drivers will ensure you are equipped with fuel when you need it most; our solutions are trusted, reliable, and cost-effective.
Get in touch today! Call 1-877-656-4189