The morning fog has been brutal. Here are some tips for driving safely

These warmer winter temperatures are a mixed blessing.

More balmy mornings mean you might not have to grab as heavy a coat (temperatures this week are expected to be in the 70s). The problem is those warm temperatures can lead to the formation of a dense, thick fog, right around the time you're ready to head out the door. That fog can be dangerous.

In fact, Columbus police said foggy weather conditions were a major factor in Monday's crashes on I-185. In the foggy, rainy early morning, there were a total of six different collisions involving 19 vehicles. Four people were sent to the hospital.

"When it's raining or foggy like it was this morning, people need to slow down and give themselves ample time to get there," Police Sgt. Fred Carnes said.



We all have to get to work. But there are some ways to make sure your drive through the soup is more safe. Here are some tips from State Farm and the National Weather Service that can help you and your vehicle arrive in one piece.

1. The most important rule is to simply slow down and take your time. You might be a little late to your coffee or your office, but it's worth it to arrive with your car and your body intact.

2. Don't use your phone or radio. With visibility so limited, your full attention is required.

3. Use your normal low beams and fog lights if you have them. Do not use your high beams. High beams can be tempting, but they can both distract other drivers and mostly just reflect back off the fog, making visibility even harder.

4. Turn off cruise control if you're heading onto the highway. You want to be in full control of the car in case something comes out of the fog more quickly than you expect.

5. Use your windshield wipers and defrosters to get rid of any extra water on your windows.

6. Open your windows a crack so you can hear when other cars are coming. With visibility so low, you'll want to get as much information as possible to make up for it.

7. If it's just too difficult to see, put your hazard lights on and pull over into a safe place until the fog clears up some as it evaporates. If you really can't see anything, it's just not worth the risk.

This story was originally published December 19, 2017 at 6:59 AM with the headline "The morning fog has been brutal. Here are some tips for driving safely."