Nova Scotia Driving Test Practice: Ace your driving test

What should you do if you encounter fog while driving?

1. Use high beams to improve visibility

2. Drive at normal speed

3. Reduce speed and use low beams

4. Pull over and wait for it to clear

The correct answer is: Reduce speed and use low beams

Encountering fog while driving significantly reduces visibility, and the proper response is to reduce speed and use low beams. Fog creates a dense, white visual challenge that can scatter light, and using high beams can actually worsen visibility because the light reflects off the fog, creating a blinding effect. By reducing speed, drivers give themselves more time to react to obstacles or suddenly stopped vehicles, improving safety for themselves and others on the road. Low beams are designed to illuminate the road immediately in front of the vehicle without causing glare, making it easier to see in foggy conditions. While pulling over until the fog clears might seem like a safe option, it can also pose risks, especially if visibility fluctuates or if there are no suitable places to safely stop. Thus, adjusting driving speed and using low beams is the safest and most effective approach in foggy conditions.