When driving in fog, it is crucial to use fog lights rather than high beams. Fog lights are specifically designed to illuminate the road ahead without causing glare or reflecting off the fog, which can be particularly hazardous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), using fog lights can improve visibility by up to 200 feet compared to high beams, which can actually reduce visibility in foggy conditions due to their intense brightness.

Fog lights emit a soft, wide beam that spreads out to cover more of the road, making it easier for drivers to see the road surface and potential hazards. This is especially important in fog, where visibility is significantly reduced. High beams, on the other hand, are designed to focus light directly ahead, which can reflect off the water droplets in the fog and create a blinding effect, further reducing visibility.

A study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that when fog lights are used correctly, they can reduce the risk of a crash by up to 20%. Additionally, the IIHS noted that using high beams in fog can increase the risk of a crash by up to 50%. These findings underscore the importance of using fog lights in foggy conditions and avoiding high beams to ensure safety on the road.