Quality Body & Fender

Clear Answers About Fog Lights

As the weather gets colder and snowier, fog can become a normal occurrence. When thick fog hangs in the air, regular headlights can actually make driving more dangerous. This is brought on when there is extra moisture in the air that freezes, making small ice crystals. At Quality Body & Fender in Oakland, CA  we know that good fog lights will make driving not only easier, but much safer in the winter.

Many people wonder why regular headlights won’t work in the foggy air. Since fog is basically just water droplets, when bright headlights hit it, it reflects the light. This creates a “wall” that you won’t be able to see past. Fog lights are angled more downward. They illuminate the ground, but are under the line of fog so that the light doesn’t shine back. Fog lights can even help increase visibility in very snowy or dusty conditions. When manufacturers install these specialty lights, they also usually put a cover over the top of the light, or create such a sharp downward angle that no light can shine up at the fog.

Some companies don’t pre-install fog lights. It is usually a relatively cheap and quick fix though. You can purchase fog lights at almost any auto parts store, and either install them yourself or have them installed at the shop. If you are ever in an accident it is never an excuse to say that you did not have fog lights or that they weren’t turned on before the crash. In fact, your insurance may be invalid if you had the wrong lights on in misty weather. When you get a new car, it is a good idea to go through the owner’s manual to figure out how to turn on your fog lights and where they are located. Usually the switch to turn the lights on is near the regular light switch. If you twist the handle, the fog lights will turn on. Make sure to check them regularly so that you’re not caught without them in an emergency.

Although you likely won’t need your fog lights often, they are still important and useful. By double checking that your car actually has them, making sure they function properly, and understanding how they work, you can be prepared for nearly any scenario or weather condition. Part of being a responsible car owner is taking care of not only the car, but always ensuring your safety and the safety of other drivers.

Sources: DIY News and Wikipedia