Here’s How to Drive Safely in Smog & Avoid Accidents Like the One in India

Lahore and most of Punjab is enveloped in a thick cloud of smog. The Motorway and the GT Road had been closed by the respective authorities due to low visibility.

A tweet from the Government of Punjab has announced that schools will open at 9 AM and close at 2:30 PM due to smog.

Many accidents have been caused due to rash driving in areas with low visibility and as many as 25 people have died. Drivers are advised to be more vigilant and careful while driving.

Similar Situation in India

Delhi is also witnessing a thick blanket of smog and some dangerous accidents morning as the pollution levels worsened. As a direct result of this blanket of smog, 18 vehicles including a bus crashed into eachother, leaving many injured and one dead. The drivers seen in the video were driving too fast and they weren’t aware of the pile-up of cars ahead of them.

Tips For Driving Safely

Considering the accidents, such as the one mentioned above, drivers need to keep certain guidelines in mind when driving through such thick smog.

1. While driving in low visibility one should use low beam headlights instead of high beams which hinders the vision of oncoming traffic. High beam lights can also be reflected by the particles present in the air which will cause more harm than benefit for the driver.
2. Using fog lights is a must. Fog lights have been proven to be effective in low visibility. Fog lights illuminate the lower part of the road without reflecting the light back to the driver.
3. Drive at a slow and reasonable pace during smog or foggy conditions which gives the other drivers enough time to react and act during an emergency situation. Speeds exceeding 30km/h are dangerous in thick smoggy conditions.
4. Maintain a safe distance between cars. Reducing distance between cars can cause accidents because the driver doesn’t have much time to react if the car next to him/her stops.
5. Avoid changing lanes.
6. Turn off music or electronic devices while driving. Be alert and remain vigilant while driving. Don’t use your mobile while driving under any circumstance. Keep your eye on the road and don’t be distracted by anything.
7. Fog or cold can cause the formation of moisture over the windscreens. The drivers should roll down their windows slightly or use the car’s heater to clear the moisture from the screen.
8. Make sure that your vehicle is in a good condition and ready for harsh conditions. Before driving, check your electrical systems, windscreen washer, wiper, battery, engine oil, brakes, and tires.
9. Last but not the least, don’t be a thrill seeker. Drive slow, and remain safe.