As autumn approaches, it is crucial to consider the dangers that arise from foggy road conditions. Rijkswaterstaat warns drivers about the risks of driving with inadequate lighting, especially in vehicles relying on automatic lighting systems. What few people realize is that this lack of awareness can have severe legal consequences, so it is advisable to know what can happen in the event of a car accident.
Automatic lighting in fog
Modern cars are often equipped with daytime running lights and automatic lighting, but these systems are not always adequately tailored to foggy conditions. Daytime running lights typically only activate the headlights, meaning that vehicles are difficult to see from behind in fog.
The issue with daytime running lights is that the sensors on the windshield only measure light, which means that the low beams only come on when it gets really dark. However, in fog, rain, and daytime snow, the daytime lighting remains on, which poses a potential hazard for vehicles without rear lights.
Serious legal consequences
Inadequately adjusting lighting to weather conditions can have serious legal consequences. If a driver is involved in a collision while the lighting is not properly engaged, this can lead to legal liability. This can affect insurance claims and, in some cases, even result in criminal proceedings.
In the case of injuries in such an accident, the situation becomes even more complicated. Personal injury claims can be complex and require legal expertise to ensure that your rights are protected.
Make sure you are always clearly visible on the road, especially in foggy weather conditions. Poor visibility plays a significant role in traffic accidents, particularly for motorcyclists and cyclists.
Rijkswaterstaat has provided some useful tips for driving in fog, such as using front fog lights when visibility is less than 200 meters and rear fog lights when visibility is less than 50 meters.
Don’t let accidents happen to you. If you are still involved in a car accident and suffer personal injuries, MCJ Advocatuur is here to help you. Contact us today for expert legal advice and assistance.