The KNMI has issued code yellow due to dense fog. The warning has been issued for Drenthe until 2 a.m. tonight.
Earlier today, code yellow was issued due to slippery conditions. Road users are advised to be extra careful.
Let’s start with what the Dutch traffic rules say about this. According to the Road Traffic Act and the Vehicle Regulations, specific rules apply to the use of fog lights at the front and rear of your car.
You may turn on the front fog lights if visibility is less than 200 meters due to fog, heavy rain or snowfall. They are intended to make the road surface and any obstacles more visible. However, do not use them in light fog or drizzle, as they can dazzle other road users.
The rear fog light, which is usually only one, may only be switched on when visibility is less than 50 meters through fog. This is an important limit: if used incorrectly, these bright lights can be confused with your brake light, or they can obstruct the view of drivers behind you, according to the ANWB.
The question remains of course how you can estimate whether the visibility is less than 50 or 200 meters. A useful rule of thumb: look at the distance between hectometer posts on the highway. These are approximately 100 meters apart. If you can barely see the next marker, it’s time to turn on your fog lights.