Motorists warned of fine for incorrect use of major safety feature

The Highway Code states that motorists must not use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights

Motorists are being warned that they could face a £50 fine for breaching a little-known driving regulation this autumn. Fog lights are essential for increasing visibility in poor weather conditions, but incorrectly using them could result in a penalty.

According to the RAC, drivers who misuse their fog lights may be eligible for a fine, particularly if they dazzle other road users with the bright lights. Although the fine is not substantial, it is likely to be around £50, which could be a blow for cash-strapped Britons.

The RAC stated: "The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 prohibits the use of front and rear fog lights to dazzle other drivers when visibility is not reduced or when the vehicle is parked.", reports the Express.

"Confusingly, using fog lights in drizzle and rain is therefore not allowed. You are even eligible for a fine from the police if caught. Once the fog has lifted, switch off your fog lights."

"There will be symbol on your car's dashboard or on the fog light button itself: it's normally an amber indicator for rear fog lights and a green one for front fog lights."

Fog lights should only be used when visibility has been reduced to under 100m or around 328ft, roughly the length of a football pitch. Motorists are reminded that according to the Highway Code, fog lights must not be used in rain if visibility is clear.

Rule 236 clearly states: "You must not use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights."

Although drivers won't face penalty points for misuse of fog lights, fines may still be imposed.

Dan Jones, operations manager at DrivingExperience.com, suggested a £50 fine could be enforced for misuse of fog lights.

He remarked: "Sometimes it is easy to forget you have put your fog lights on as you can't see them when driving in lighter conditions."

He also warned: "Failing to do so could mean that not only could you dazzle an oncoming driver and cause an accident, you could also be hit with a £50 fine due to breaking The Highway Code."