A CAMPAIGN has been launched asking drivers "have you got the foggiest?"

The annual lighting campaign run by the Department of Infrastructure's Road Safety Team and the Roads Policing Unit aims to encourage drivers to switch their fog lights on in fog and to remind them to switch them off when visibility improves.

In the last three years there have been 15 accidents where fog has been a contributory factor.

The Road Safety Team is surprised by the number of drivers who don't know where the fog light switch is on their vehicle.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK said: "As I travel around on foggy days I am amazed at the number of vehicles fitted with fog lights with them switched off.

"As the fog clears up I am then dazzled due to drivers leaving them on, particularly the rear fog lights, well after the normal visibility has returned.

"We are asking that as the foggy season approaches drivers check their car lights are in full working order and know which switch operates which light or lights, for the safety of all our road users."

     
Road safety manager Gordon Edwards said: "For everyone's safety if your car has front fog lights switch them on in fog. They are better at penetrating fog than dipped headlights - not forgetting to switch them off when conditions clear."

  
The Road Safety Team has commissioned a campaign radio advert and a poster image which the public can download from here.

Inspector Mark Britton of the Roads Policing Unit said: "Being aware of the weather conditions is simple. Drivers need to be alive to the road and drive to arrive.

"It is also coming up to that time of year when you should check your lights and make sure that they are all working.

"Our officers will be focusing on the issue of fog lights but we will also be looking out for the drivers with lights not working.

"Action will be taken because this is about keeping all road users safe."