When the weather outside is foggy, you need to make sure you take the right steps to stay safe. As a cyclist, you will be much harder to see in the fog, so there is a great risk of getting hit by a car if you aren’t prepared for the changes.
In most circumstances, biking in fog around a busy road would just be ill-advised, but if you have to do so, there are a couple of things you can do to stay safer. Here are three to try.
- Brighten up
The first thing to do is to make yourself as visible as possible. That means wearing brightly colored jackets or jerseys, putting on reflective clothing and using a bright helmet (if you have one). The bold colors will help you stand out against the gray background that fog creates.
- Add lights to your bike
In fog, using a light can help you stand out more. Your bike should have a rear flashing red light. Normally, drivers are advised to use fog lights, but in your case, use as bright of a red flashing light as you can.
On the front of your bike, add a headlight. It should also flash, so it will draw more attention.
- Get defensive
Finally, remember that this is the most appropriate time for you to become a defensive rider. Don’t expect anyone to see you. Ride in a way that gives you the most visibility, but also pay attention to what’s happening around you and be prepared to move out of the way if you have to.
If you have the option, choose a route with less traffic or one with a bike lane. This will put the most space between your bike and other vehicles, so there is a greatly reduced risk of crashing.
These are three things to do to make yourself safer on a foggy bike ride. If you do end up in a collision, remember that the other driver can be held accountable if they were not being safe and hit you due to their negligence in these conditions.
