Sunrise commutes in southwest Virginia can feel like an obstacle course. There’s that cornfield where the neighborhood deer love to jump-scare you from. And that spastic squirrel who can’t decide if he wants to go left, right, or both. Supersized branches are straddling the road thanks to last night’s storm, and there’s a loose cow munching on wet grass — close enough to make uncomfortable eye contact.
But there’s one variable that takes your drive from mildly irritating to boss level: morning fog.
Mountain fog isn’t that lingering, romantic mist you see in romcoms. It’s as thick as porridge and absolutely wrecks visibility. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while navigating less-than-stellar early morning driving conditions
Drive Slow and Skip the High Beams: Sure, you’ve done this commute so many times you could drive it in your sleep (don’t do that), but unless you’re clairvoyant (you’re not), you have no idea what could leap out in front of you. By slowing down, you give yourself time to react to wildlife, fallen limbs, and other drivers. Also, skip the high beams — they just reflect off the fog and light up your own retinas. Low beams are the move here.
Take Extra Care Around Curves: Thick fog + curvy mountain roads = asphalt vanishing act. Add elevation, and you may not see where the road ends or how much shoulder room you’ve got. Go painfully slow around curves. The goal is to get to the other side alive, not first.
Pull Over for Aggressive Drivers: If someone’s tailgating like they’re auditioning for Days of Thunder, let them pass…safely. Their need for speed does not involve you. Find a turnout or wide shoulder, pull over, and let them go about their day.
If You’re in an Accident: Even the most careful drivers can end up in a fender-bender, especially in bad conditions. If it happens:
- Call 911 to report the accident.
- Turn on your hazard lights right away.
- If the car is drivable and safe, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives or it’s safe to move.
- If it’s not safe inside (fire risk, etc.), exit on the side away from traffic and get clear of the road.
- Never stand in front of or behind your vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Fog messes with visibility for everyone. That means you, the guy behind you, and the guy barreling the other direction are all gripping the wheel like it’s a stress ball.
Be patient. Stay off your phone. Drive slow. Soon you’ll be on the other side of the fog, you can unclench your jaw, and resume your true crime podcast. (Spoiler: it’s always the boyfriend.)