Caltrans has established the following sight-distance thresholds for foggy conditions: Light fog means visibility is at 500 feet; moderate fog means visibility is greater than 200 feet but less than 500 feet; and dense fog visibility is less than 200 feet.

CHP reminds drivers to carry chains and to be prepared for winter driving conditions. We recommend carrying blankets, water, food, a shovel, gloves, a flashlight, and sand or kitty litter to provide traction in case your vehicle becomes stuck.

Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down. Having an emergency supply kit in every vehicle, which includes a fully charged cellular telephone, first-aid kit, flashlight, flares, jumper cables, non-perishable food, and drinking water, is one way for motorists to be better prepared and help keep themselves and their passengers safe until roadside assistance arrives.

Many crashes result from driving too fast, so the first and foremost tip is: SLOW DOWN. It’s a simple matter of physics that your vehicle can’t stop as fast or turn as accurately on wet or icy pavement. And in fog, reduced speed is equally important because vision is impaired.

Prepare for potential inclement weather by leaving early, allowing plenty of time to get where you’re going. Make sure your gas tank is full. Always leave ample distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.

Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) is a joint venture between Caltrans, California Highway Patrol, and ten local jurisdictions throughout the state. FSP tow trucks patrol in excess of 1,400 miles of California freeways.

They offer the following services free of charge:
-Changing flat tires
-Jump-starting cars
-Refilling radiators and taping leaky hoses
-Putting a gallon of fuel in gas tanks

#399 calls are referred to the California Freeway Service Patrol. FSP assists more than 600,000 stranded motorists per year. Their goal is to quickly repair or remove disabled vehicles to relieve freeway congestion.

If FSP cannot get the car running within ten minutes, it will tow the car absolutely free of charge, to a safe drop location off the freeway. Dial #399 in SoCal. Caltrans Road Information Hotline at 1-800-427-7623 (ROAD)

During this stormy season, please be prepared. Know what it is you’re going to do, know where you’re going, be prepared for any emergency and remember, the California Highway Patrol will respond to your aid no matter what the roadway condition is. Have a safe weekend.