What do fog light symbols look like and when is it against ...

FOG lights are a legal requirement on vehicles and can be used in extremely low visibility, such as thick fog or mist.

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If you use your fog lights at the wrong time you could be endangering other drivers and potentially breaking the law.

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This is what the fog light symbol looks like

Credit: Alamy

What does the fog light symbol look like?

All cars are fitted with rear fog lights by law, and many UK vehicles have them situated on both the front and back.

When you turn your fog lights on, a symbol with the fog light icon will be illuminated on your dashboard to remind you they are on.

This is called a tell-tale light and is standard around the world.

The symbol for front fog lights is usually green, whereas one for rear fog lights is amber.

 

Front fog lights are represented with a green light shining left, with a wavy line through the beam.

The rear fog light symbol depicts an amber light pointing right, with the same wavy line through the beam.

Some people think the fog lights symbol looks like a sideways jellyfish.

The switch to turn them on can usually be found on a button on the dashboard, or on the steering wheel, or next to the dial you use to control your regular lights.

If you can't find the correct symbol or work out how to turn fog lights on, refer to your car's logbook &#; it should tell you exactly where to find the switch and how they function for your specific vehicle.

When should you use your fog lights?

Fog lights are for use when fog and heavy mist significantly reduce visibility on the road.

New AI cameras to be rolled out from tomorrow to catch drivers breaking the law

 

They're meant to be used when visibility drops below 100m &#; around the length of a football pitch.

You could risk the safety of yourself or other road users if you do not switch fog lights on in these conditions.

You should have your dipped headlights on at he same time to increase your visibility to other road users.

If you are involved in an accident during fog and you don't have your fog lights on, it could mean that your insurance is invalid.

According to the RAC, you should "use your common sense" when driving in fog.

They said: "If the fog is so severe that you&#;re struggling to see other vehicles, switch on your fog lights.

''But don&#;t keep switching them off and on again, as this can confuse other drivers."

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Fog lights can usually be found on a button on the dashboard, on the steering wheel, or next to the dial you use to control your regular lights

Credit: Alamy

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Is it ever against the law to use your fog lights?

If you use your fog lights when it isn't foggy, you could be endangering other road users and potentially breaking the law.

You should never use your fog lights in rain or drizzle &#; you could be fined by the police if caught doing so.

The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations says that it is illegal to use your lights to dazzle drivers coming towards you.

Fog lights are very bright, which means they shouldn't be used in normal weather.

Switching or leaving your fog lights on when it's clear, just raining, or in light mist where visibility is greater than 100m, could land you with a fine.

As CEO Peter Wadell of BigWantsYourCar explained: "It&#;s a common misconception that fog lights must always be on during winter or rainy weather.

"Many drivers don&#;t know that it is actually illegal to use your fog lights when they are not needed.

"This is because they can do more harm than good, dazzling other drivers and potentially causing other accidents."

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Some say the fog lights symbol looks like a sideways jellyfish

Credit: Getty

What is the penalty for using fog lights incorrectly?

If you use your fog lights incorrectly, you could be fined £30 at the roadside.

You won't get penalty points if dealt with in this way.

If you cause an accident or injure somebody, the penalties could be much harsher and include points, bigger fines and even a ban.

How do you turn on your fog lights?

Every car is different, so you'll need to check your manual to be sure you know how to switch on your fog lights.

In general you would start by switching your headlights on as usual.

Then locate the fog light symbol, which may be on the indicator stalk with the other light functions.

You may have to rotate the end of the stalk, or flick a switch to the right or left of the steering wheel.

Alternatively, it could be a button to press on your dashboard.

Whatever the method, you should familiarise yourself with how to turn the lights on before you go out in bad weather.

You also need to make sure you remember to turn them off again when they are no longer necessary.

This article covers:

• Fog lights definition and description
• How and when to use them
• When not to use them

What Are Fog Lights?

Fog Lights

Fog lights are special car lights that improve visibility in foggy conditions. Their beam pattern cuts through the fog without causing glare, helping you see the road better. They have two types: front fog lights and rear fog lights.

Front Fog LightsRear Fog LightsPositioned low on the front, near the bumper, they produce a low, wide, and flat beam. Typically round or oval, fog lights emit a penetrating yellow or white light.Located at the back of the vehicle, they emit a red light, usually as bright as your brake lights. Use them only in dense fog because they can be glaring to drivers behind. Front Fog Lights vs. Rear Fog Lights

Do All Cars Have Fog Lights?

Fog lights aren&#;t included with all cars. Luxury cars usually have them, but they might be optional or not included in basic models. You can often upgrade your car to add fog lights.

Difference Between Fog Lights and Normal Headlights

Normal headlights are mandatory on all vehicles. They sit higher on the car front and cast a focused, long-range beam, ideal for night driving and low-light situations but not for fog. Unlike fog lights, drivers must use normal headlights in most driving conditions.

How to Use Fog Lights?

Fog Lights Indicator

Look for the fog lights switch on the headlight control stalk (next to the steering wheel) or on the dashboard. It&#;s a symbol of a lamp with horizontal lines. Push or twist the switch to activate the fog lights.

Using Fog Lights

When to Use Fog Lights

• Heavy Fog: Ideal for penetrating thick fog that regular headlights can&#;t.
• Dense Mist: Helps in illuminating the road when mist obscures visibility.
• Severe Rainstorms: Useful in heavy rain where standard headlights struggle.
• Snowstorms: In regions where it&#;s legal, they can aid during heavy snowfall.
• Dust Storms: In arid areas, they can help navigate through dust clouds.

Note that using low or high-beam lights in these situations can make visibility worse as their positioning makes light reflect back toward the driver.

Daytime vs. Nighttime Usage

Fog Lights at Night

• Daytime: Turn on fog lights during any of the above conditions to make your car more visible and improve your road view.
• Nighttime: Use them together with regular headlights. They shouldn&#;t replace your main headlights, as their beam pattern is designed to work with the broader reach of standard headlights.

When NOT to Use Fog Lights

• Moderate to Heavy Rain: Regular headlights are more effective, fog lights can reflect off the rain.
• Snowy Conditions: Fog lights can reflect off the snow, worsening visibility.
• High Speeds: Fog lights are unnecessary due to their short-range illumination.
• Curvy or Hilly Roads: Fog lights can blind oncoming drivers on bends or hills due to their angle.
• When Overtaking: Fog lights can dazzle the driver you are overtaking, especially in dim conditions.

Do You Need to Have Fog Lights?

Fog lights are not mandatory but are extremely beneficial. So, if you have the option or can afford the upgrade, get them. Especially if you live in a climate where weather is unpredictable. The lights will allow you to drive at any time without fear of reduced visibility.

Drive Confidently in Fog with Zutobi

Learn when and how to use fog lights effectively with Zutobi. Our app offers game-like theory lessons and a practical behind-the-wheel video course, teaching you safe driving techniques, including foggy conditions. Join Zutobi now for mastering safe driving in all weathers.

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