Fog is a defining feature of San Francisco’s landscape, often turning familiar streets into challenging driving environments. This thick mist can hide road signs, obscure other vehicles and make it tough to gauge distances.
Slippery roads are another hazard in foggy conditions, affecting your car’s handling and stopping power. Knowing how to drive safely in these conditions is crucial for avoiding motor vehicle accidents and reaching your destination without incident.
Preparing your vehicle for foggy conditions
A well-prepared vehicle can make a big difference in your safety and visibility, so before heading out, consider getting your car ready. Here’s a quick checklist to run through before you hit the road:
- Headlights: Give them a good clean and check to ensure they shine bright.
- Windshield: Wipe it down thoroughly to get rid of any streaks that might mess with your view.
- Wipers: Swap out old blades for new ones to keep your windshield clear of moisture.
- Defrosters: Make sure both front and rear defrosters are working to fight window fog.
Now that your car is fog-ready, it’s time to focus on your driving techniques. Foggy roads call for some special handling.
Safe driving techniques in fog
When the mist rolls in, you probably need to step up your driving game. Here are some ways to stay safe:
- Slow down and leave more space between you and the car ahead.
- Stick to your low beams – high beams might just bounce off the fog and make things worse.
- Take it easy on turns and lane changes to avoid surprising other drivers.
- Keep an ear out for traffic you can’t see, even if it means cracking a window.
- Use road edges or lane markings as your guide to stay in your lane.
These tips can go a long way in keeping you safe when fog descends on San Francisco’s streets. Always put safety first when the weather turns tricky.
Foggy weather demands extra care on the road. By prepping your car and adjusting how you drive, you can navigate San Francisco’s foggy streets with confidence.