FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Sept. 2, 2010) -- Autumn is right around the corner. Soon, the trees will be turning and weather will turn cooler, but until then we get warm humid days and cool nights -- the perfect combination for one of the most dangerous driving conditions -- fog.
According to SmartMotorist.com, driving in fog is statistically one of the most dangerous situations a driver can face. In the Ozarks, fog is most frequently found in spring and fall when weather conditions are prime for its creation.
Fog is formed when warm air with a high moisture content is suddenly cooled by the night air. When the temperature drops to the dew point, or the temperature where the air can no longer hold the moisture, droplets are formed as the air condenses.
As the fog forms, it reduces visibility quickly, and as any high school science student can tell you, fog starts to form first in low areas where the cooler air descends. Add a river, creek or lake at that low spot to give the air a little extra moisture and you'll get a little extra thick fog.
The safest way to drive in fog, according to the American Automobile Association is to not drive in the fog. AAA recommends that unless absolutely necessary, you should wait until the fog "lifts" or dissipates to drive - but we all know that this is sometime impractical.
In the Ozarks, you are likely to encounter patchy fog, or a condition where it's clear at your home, but you run into fog on your morning commute. If you do find yourself in the fog, here are some driving tips from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to keep you safe.
-- You need to be seen as well as see. Drive with your lights on low beam. High beams will merely reflect back off the water droplets.
-- Reduce your speed and watch that speedometer. Fog can create the impression you are moving in slow motion, but you are actually speeding.
-- Turn off that radio and crack the window to listen for other traffic. Sometimes you can hear what you can't see.
-- Use your wipers and defroster to maintain a clear windshield. Fog can build up on your windshield in such a way that it slowly reduces your visibility without you realizing it.
-- Use the right edge of the road as a guide. Don't hug the centerline.
-- Don't stop unless you are clear of the roadway, and then turn off your lights. Cars tend to follow taillights and if your car is stopped with the lights on, you can create a dangerous situation similar to one in November 2007 that caused a 100-car pile up in California fog.
-- Increase your distance behind other vehicles. Decreased visibility will decrease your stopping reaction time. The thicker the fog, the greater the distance behind the car in front of you is advice SmartMotorist.com would tell you.
-- Remember, fog is water and that slight amount of the road can make the surface slick. Don't stomp your brakes.
-- Above all, be patient. Don't pass, slow down and arrive alive.
Fog can be a deadly situation and one that most drivers will face. Stay alert and use common sense during your morning drive.
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