Road accidents under adverse weather conditions such as rainy, foggy and hail/sleet accounted for 15.6% of total road accidents during 2023. Challenges of driving during winter During the winter season, snow, ice, and fog makes driving more challenging. Fog can reduce visibility to 1/4 mile or less, creating hazardous driving conditions. With decreased visibility comes a decreased amount of time to react to other cars, road changes, and even pedestrians and animals in the road. At high speeds, the car can reach unseen objects in the distance before you have a chance to react to it. Fog also makes roads damp so braking will require a greater distance. Not only does fog increase the chances of having problems with keeping your vehicle on the road, but it also increases the chances of being surprised by the actions of other cars. Tips for winter driving It is best to postpone your trip until dense fog lifts usually by late morning or the afternoon. Before setting out on your journey, wipe the glass covering the head lamps with hot water. After doing this, use a simple newspaper to clean the glass area for clearner surface area. During driving, in case of less visibility, it is safe to move off the road and wait till the fog lifts up. Turn off your driving lights and turn on your flashers so others know you're there but won't think you are driving on the road. Drive with lights on low beam. High beams will only be reflected back off actually impair visibility even more. Reduce your speed -- and watch your speedometer. Fog creates a visual motion when you may actually be speeding. Most fog-related traffic fatalities occur because someone was driving too fast and couldn't stop in time to avoid a collision. Avoid passing or changing lane - Its always safe if you follow the car who is in front of you. Listen for traffic you cannot see. Open your window a little, to hear well. Use wipers and defrosters as necessary for maximum visibility. Use the right edge of the road or painted road markings as a guide. Keep your minimum safety gap to three seconds in ideal conditions; with the decreased visibility fog causes, this interval should be increased substantially. Make sure that you can be seen. Turn on your fog lights, and use low beams. Reduce the distractions in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and cell phone. Your full attention is required. Always use your defroster and windscreen wipers in foggy conditions to keep the windows clear. Remember that other drivers have a limited sight distance and that fog can leave roadways slick. Signal early, and when you use your brakes, doesn't stomp on them.