Multiple accidents due to foggy conditions, low visibility
Motorists worry about snow and ice when driving but fog produces its own set of complications.
Multiple vehicle accidents were reported Sunday morning on Highway 171 north of Carl Junction. At least two semi trucks were involved, as well as several cars near the Highway 171-Route 96 intersection.
One large truck has already been righted again and 171 is partially open. A tanker filled with reported poultry food is being cleaned up.
No serious injuries have been reported.
Fog forms when the difference between air temperature and dew point is less than 4.5 °F. Water vapor condenses into tiny liquid water droplets that are suspended in the air. .
Some advice for dealing with foggy conditions:
1. Leave plenty of distance between your car and the one in front of you. Decreased visibility means longer braking times, so that added space is your friend. In other words, slow down!
2. Take advantage of your windshield wipers and defrosters. Moisture and ice on your windshield can create glare, which can make it even more difficult to see.
3. Speaking of visibility: ditch your car’s high beams. Low beams are better when driving in fog. you don’t think your current headlights are powerful enough in low beam mode, consider a headlight replacement.
4. Resist the common urge to use the lights of any vehicles in front of you as a guide. This can actually cause you to focus too much on the narrow patch of landscape in front of you – causing you to miss other things!
5. Skip cruise control. Foggy roads can have surprises waiting, and it’s best to maintain complete control of your car.
6. Follow the right-side line of the road to guide you. Don’t be afraid to slow down and drive cautiously along the right side of the roadway. Roadside reflectors can help guide you, as well.
7. Don’t accelerate if a car behind you is too close. It can be tempting to try and “lose” the guy who is right on your tail, but that can actually make your situation more dangerous.
8. Stay home when the fog is bad (if possible!). Fog can make driving scary and dangerous, so stay off the roads altogether if you’re able.
9. Check your mirrors before slowing down, and gently apply your brakes. The earlier you can start to tap the brakes, the better! Your brake lights will alert drivers behind you that you are slowing down.
10. If you choose to pull over and wait out the fog, pull as far to the side of the road as possible. Once you’re stopped, turn on your hazard lights.The key to driving in the fog is to remember that everyone is having trouble seeing, so play it extra safe by getting well out of the way and using your lights to let other drivers know where you are.