Few things can be as disconcerting as driving into an unexpectedly thick patch of fog. Suddenly, visibility is a major concern. Heavy fog, generally defined as visibility below one-quarter of a mile, is most common in the fall season -- either at night or early morning. 

Here are some safety tips, provided by the Texas Department of Insurance, aimed at helping your drivers navigate through heavy fog conditions.

• Slow down and don’t drive faster than your vision safely allows.

• Be very cautious. Fog can become thicker without warning and without being noticed until it’s too late to react.

• Increase following distance to ensure enough reaction time and stopping distance.

• Turn on all your lights, including your hazard lights. Use low-beam headlights and fog lights. Do not use high beams.

• Turn on your four-way flashers to give vehicles approaching from behind a better opportunity to see and notice your vehicle.

• Use windshield wipers and the defroster as necessary to maximize visibility.

• Be ready for emergency stops by other vehicles.

• If possible, drive in a “pocket” where no other vehicles are around you.