CHP reminds drivers to play it safe in San Joaquin Valley fog

With fog season in the Central Valley typically starting this month, the California Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be prepared.

“Motorists must be alert for rapidly changing conditions in the fog,” said Chief Jim Abrames, CHP Central Division commander, in a news release. “Remember, what you can’t see can kill you. Driving too fast during reduced-visibility conditions and following too closely causes collisions in the fog. Drivers must accept the responsibility for driving slower and safer in the fog.”

To help slow traffic, the CHP will have “pace” units working on major highways between Modesto and Bakersfield, as resources allow, on foggy days when visibility is less than 500 feet.

The CHP offers these tips for driving in fog:

▪ Drive with your headlights on low beam.

▪ Reduce your speed.

▪ Avoid crossing traffic unless absolutely necessary.

▪ Turn down your car’s sound system to listen for traffic you cannot see.

▪ Use your wipers and defroster as necessary for maximum visibility.

▪ Be patient; don’t pass lines of traffic.

▪ Unless absolutely necessary, don’t stop on any freeway or heavily traveled road.

▪ Consider postponing trips until the fog clears.

This story was originally published November 6, 2014 at 2:52 PM with the headline "CHP reminds drivers to play it safe in San Joaquin Valley fog."