NEW ORLEANS — In heavy fog, it is common wisdom that drivers should opt for low-beams rather than high-beams. Some cars even have a lower set of lights specifically designed for fog. But why don’t others, and how do they help illuminate the road when visibility is low?
Fog lights are positioned below the front headlights. They are more common on European cars, as the EU legally requires cars to have at least one rear fog light. The U.S. does not, but many American cars have them anyway. “If you ever try putting your bright lights on in the fog it just flashes back in your face,” said Paul Cosma of Uptown Auto Specialist. The low lights, on the other hand, shine onto the road without interrupting the drivers’ field of vision.
Nowadays, they are yellow or white, but Cosma said that was not always the case. “Back in the 50’s and 60’s and even into the 80’s they had amber colored fog lights.” They are still available online, with vintage ones for sale on secondary markets.
And while front fog lights are meant to make it easier for drivers to see, rear fog lights help them be more visible to others. Some cars, especially “Volvos and Mercedes’'' according to Cosma, have a light on only one side so they are not confused with taillights.
The symbol for fog lights looks like the right half of a circle with a line to the left crossed by three small hatch marks. Like regular headlights, the mechanism for turning them on varies by vehicle.
If you have fog lights but are unsure how to turn them on, you can either search your make, model, and year on the internet or consult your owners’ manual.
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