Turn on your headlights in fog

On Dec. 8 at 10:45 a.m., westbound on Pelandale Avenue, half-mile visibility due to fog. No fewer than 15 percent of oncoming vehicles, including a truck pulling a load of Christmas trees, did not have their headlights on. The same ratio of unsafe drivers (I use the term "drivers" loosely) continued all the way to Tracy.

Returning to Modesto we are west of Tracy about a half-hour after sundown. And guess what? Way too many vehicles did not have headlights on. A few of these dip wads had automobiles with "daytime running lights" that come on when the ignition is on — but these are not headlights.

If your vehicle has this daytime running light option, you should be aware that your tail lights are not on until you turn your headlights on. The DMV says headlights should be used "when it is raining, snowy or foggy; if you are using your windshield wipers; on frosty mornings when other drivers may have trouble seeing you; etc."

Daytime running lights are there to make you a bit more conspicuous. So c'mon, people; don't make it easier for me to run you over by hiding in your darkened, nearly invisible car.

TERRY EASTON

Modesto