Drivers across the UK risk a £50 fixed penalty notice for a simple mistake involving fog lights, road safety experts have warned, as millions woke to thick fog on Monday morning.
Yellow weather warnings are in place across dozens of local authorities in England and Wales until 11am, and across most of Northern Ireland until 10am. The warnings highlight the risk of travel disruption, with the England and Wales warning stating: "Fog leading to difficult travel conditions and possible delays."
People in affected areas are advised to expect slower journey times, possible delays to bus and train services, and a chance of delays or cancellations to flights.
Fog light rules and penalties
The UK weather service said in the warnings that people should give themselves "the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, leaving extra journey time, or amending plans if necessary." It also advised: "Make sure you know how to switch on your fog lights, and check they are working before setting off on your journey."
While fog lights can improve visibility in misty or foggy conditions, drivers must switch them off when they are no longer necessary, due to the risk of dazzling other drivers and the risk of a fine. The AA website explains that fog lights "can be helpful when conditions are very misty or foggy", but drivers "could be penalised if you use them at the wrong time".
The AA points to the Highway Code, which states: "You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced (see Rule 226) as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves."
Warnings in place across the UK
The AA says drivers should never use fog lights when visibility is clear, as they "could be given a Fixed Penalty Notice with a £50 fine".
Regions and local authorities in England and Wales under the yellow weather warning for fog until 11am include areas in the East Midlands, East of England, London and South East England, North West England, South West England, Wales, the West Midlands, and Yorkshire and Humber.
In Northern Ireland, the warning until 10am covers County Antrim, County Armagh, County Down, County Fermanagh, County Londonderry and County Tyrone.
Further information and the latest updates are available on the Met Office website.
