Driving in Fog? Here’s When Your Fog Lights Matter Most

Fog can turn even familiar roads into a blur. That’s why knowing when to use your fog lights is essential. When used correctly, car LED bulbs for fog lights help you see well and keep you safe during low-visibility conditions. But not every situation calls for them; in fact, using them when visibility is good could dazzle other drivers and land you with a fine.

When should you turn on fog lights in the UK?

When visibility drops below 100 metres (roughly the length of a football pitch) — that’s when you should turn on your car LED bulbs for fog lights. At this level, the fog is thick enough to make it difficult for you to see vehicles ahead or behind.

Don’t forget to use your regular headlights as well. Just avoid using high beams, as they reflect off the fog and reduce visibility even more.

Besides endangering yourself and others, not using your fog lights when you should could also risk invalidating your car insurance if you’re involved in an accident.

Is it illegal to use fog lights when it’s not foggy?

Yes. Fog lights are meant only for foggy conditions when visibility drops below 100 metres — a rule that comes directly from the Highway Code (Rule 226).

Additionally, the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 says it’s an offence to use fog lights when visibility is clear, as they can dazzle other road users. You shouldn’t use them in drizzle or light rain, or even mist that doesn’t significantly limit your view of the road.

If you’re caught using fog lights unnecessarily, you could face a fine from the police. Once visibility improves or the fog clears, make sure to switch your fog lights off to stay compliant and to show courtesy to other drivers.

Best LED fog light bulbs for UK weather

Car LED bulbs are the most practical upgrade for fog lights, especially if you want outstanding brightness and energy efficiency without compromising reliability. With longer lifespans and cooler operating temperatures, LED fog lights deliver consistent visibility through foggy conditions and heavy rain, making them ideal for unpredictable weather in the UK.

Many modern car LED bulbs for fog lights also allow for customisable colour temperatures and adjustable beam patterns, giving you flexibility for different driving environments.

At HIDS DIRECT, we offer one of the widest selections of premium LED fog light upgrades that emit a clean, bright white beam. Each bulb is a direct OEM replacement, meaning you won’t need any complex wiring or modifications. Here are some of our top picks:

• H8 40W 12000lm Canbus LED headlight/fog bulb kit 6000K (12–24V)

These premium H8 LED fog light kits feature high-brightness CSP LED chips, each fitted with six 3570 LEDs that deliver an impressive 12,000 lumens of crisp white light (6000K). With a built-in cooling fan and aerodynamic heat dissipation system, each bulb protects against overheating and ensures a steady 40W power output for optimal performance.

• H11 10000lm 55W Canbus LED headlight/fog bulb kit 6500K (9–32V)

With G-XP auto-grade LED chips and intelligent temperature control, the X9S H11 car LED bulbs deliver superior illumination in low-visibility conditions. Their 360-degree adjustable beam design allows seamless rotation, helping you achieve the perfect light pattern for your vehicle while maximising up to 10,000 lumens.

• D-Lumina 2023 Future Series 9006 (HB4) LED headlight bulbs – 160W 30,000lm, 6500K

The D-Lumina 9006 Future Series is a strong choice when you need uncompromising brightness. Using compact 8mm x 3.5mm LEDs, these car LED bulbs emit up to 30,000 lumens, making them 10 times brighter than standard halogens.

Shop for car LED bulbs here at HIDS Direct. Our website has everything you need. You can also contact us here for questions.