How to use car lights correctly? Xiao Liu, a novice driver, had just driven his new car out of the 4S shop when he “rode” up onto the curb. It wasn’t carelessness on Xiao Liu’s part — he had actually accidentally turned on the high beams, which left him surrounded by blinding white light and unable to see anything. Experts advise that high beams should not be used in foggy conditions, as the light they emit is easily reflected by fog, creating a white wall of mist that endangers both yourself and others. In foggy weather, drivers should use low beams along with the small and large vehicle lights and fog lights. In heavy fog or when driving on highways, hazard lights should be turned on. Additionally, it’s important to follow lighting regulations by turning on front and rear fog lights, tail lights, clearance lights, and low beams to improve visibility using light. Of course, this is only possible if these lighting devices are in good working condition and have been checked beforehand.
　　 In hazy weather, frequently honking your horn can serve as a warning to pedestrians and other vehicles. When you hear another vehicle’s horn, you should respond immediately by honking back to indicate your own position. When two vehicles pass each other, honk to alert the oncoming vehicle, and at the same time, turn off your fog lights to avoid dazzling the other driver. However, use your horn cautiously in urban areas, and especially at night, avoid long presses to prevent noise pollution.
　　 Should you stay alert and keep your car clean during heavy fog? Zhao, the editor-in-chief of a car website, often drives for work. Once, while returning from Anhui, a light fog set in on the highway. Feeling drowsy, Zhao sensed that something was wrong, so he found a side road, navigated through several turns, and pulled over onto a rural path to park and sleep. After waking up feeling refreshed and with clear vision, Zhao safely made it home. Zhao’s approach is worth recommending — in foggy conditions, one should especially avoid driving while fatigued, and on long journeys, knowing your limits and staying focused are key prerequisites for safety.
　　 Also, make sure your car lights and windshield are clean. In foggy conditions, you might consider using your windshield wipers to remove condensation from the front windshield. Using the air conditioner’s defogger setting can quickly clear thin fog from the inside of the windows. Cracking open a window slightly to allow air circulation and equalize the temperature inside and outside the car can help prevent the windshield from fogging up. Applying substances like glycerin, alcohol, salt water, or dish soap to the windshield can keep it fog-free for a short period. If you need to wipe the fog off the windshield manually, do so only after parking — never try to wipe it while driving.