ORLANDO, Fla. – Driving through dense fog can sometimes be a white-knuckling experience, especially when visibility is severely reduced. Some drivers might instinctively switch on their high beams, thinking it will help them see better. However, this common reaction can actually make the situation much worse.
Let me explain the science behind why you should not rely on high beams when the fog rolls in.
Fog consists of countless tiny water droplets suspended in the air. These droplets start off clear but pick up particles in the air, making the fog more opaque and becoming more cloud-like.
These bright droplets are very efficient at scattering light and that is the case when a light source is added to the mix.
HIGH BEAM OPTION:
When you switch on your car’s high beams, the light is projected in a direct and elevated straight line, pointing directly into the fog. That spotlight hits the fog scattering the light in all directions.
This turns a cloudy view into a bright white wall in front of you, significantly reducing your ability to see the road ahead. This phenomenon is known as “backscatter.”
LOW BEAM OPTION:
In contrast, low beams are designed to cast light downward, illuminating the road rather than the fog. This minimizes the amount of light that gets scattered back into your eyes, allowing you to see better.
FOG LIGHT OPTION:
Some cars are equipped with fog lights. This is obviously the best option, because these lights are positioned much lower on the car with a wider, flat beam pattern. These lights are specifically designed to cut through fog by focusing on the road surface, illuminating the path ahead without reflecting the light back into the driver’s eyes.
The key is to use low beams or fog lights, which reduce glare and improve visibility. No matter what, it is still very important to slow down and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, as fog can make it difficult to judge distances accurately.
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