Is it illegal to use my full beam lights in fog?

DRIVING in fog can be pretty daunting, especially if it's your first time.

Visibility is limited, so it's important to take calculated measures to protect you and others on the road, including familiarising yourself with your fog lights.

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Is it illegal to use my full beam lights in fog?

In the UK you have to have at least one rear fog light, though many cars - especially more expensive models - come with front fog lights as well.

Do use your fog lights when driving in fog.

Although it is not a legal requirement, it will make it easier and safer for you to drive on the road.

But make sure to turn off your fog lights once the fog has lifted, as other drivers can be easily dazzled, especially at night.

It is illegal to drive with your fog lights on when it's not foggy, so don't get caught out otherwise you could receive a non-endorsable Fixed Penalty Notice - no points but a £30 fine.

Drivers will not want to use full beam lights in fog, as light bounces off the fog and back into your eyes.

It is not illegal but it won't help you to see.

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Does my car have fog lights?

Rear fog lights are a legal requirement on all cars.

Front fog lights are only fitted to certain models, usually as an aesthetic add-on for higher spec cars.

All new cars have daytime running lights (DRL) that are also intended to help the car be seen on the road.

The rear fog light is a red light, similar in brightness to a brake light, while front fog lights are usually white or yellow lights.

The difference between fog lights and normal headlights is how they cut through fog to reduce glare.

Front fog lights are designed to illuminate the road so are mounted lower down on the car so they can shine underneath the fog.

While normal headlights aren't angled downwards in the same way and are mounted higher up on the front of the car.

How should I drive in fog?

 has guidelines for driving in fog. Here's their top tips:

• Use dipped headlights, wipers and demisters.
• Use fog lights when you need to.
• Beware of other drivers not using headlights.
• Only drive as fast as conditions allow.
• Slow down so you can stop in the distance you can see clearly.
• Allow 3 seconds instead of 2 between you and the car in front.
• Check your mirrors before you slow down.
• Open your window to listen for traffic at junctions if you can’t see.