Let's have a general discussion on fog lights

[Mick_Marsh]

Just heard on the radio, the police here are targeting incorrect use of fog lights. They're dazzling other drivers, apparently.

So, when they pull me over, "Nah, mate, they're daytime running lamps."

So, what is the difference? I thought fog lights weren't meant to be dazzling bright. I know people who drive with their fog lights on all the time. "I want to see and be seen." they say.

What is your opinion?

[incisor]

about bloody time!

[biggrin]

[trout1105]

about bloody time!

[biggrin]

+1
Fog lights are designed for use in heavy fog and YES they are quite bright, They are also a PITA for other road users if they are turned on when there is NO fog to disperse the light.
If anyone wants extra lighting then upgrade your existing lights or buy some spotties or/and a lightbar, Don't be that Tosser driving around with the fog lights on when there is no fog and giving the other road users the ****s.

[Mick_Marsh]

about bloody time!

[biggrin]

Absolutely.

It's also annoying being dazzled by people on the other side of the dual carriageway on hi beam and people following on high beam.

LED lights, some of them are just too bright.

[superquag]

A lot of this comes down to Coppers NOT knowing the Law, and/or not enforcing - or even cautioning - it. From my reading of the Law and Design rules, 'fog lamps' are ONLY to be used in certain conditions, Fog or extremes, where their use outweighs the dazzling....

Correct me if I'm Rrong, but Fog lamps are supposed to mounted low, and aimed to project into/under that bottom layer of clear or less foggy, Fog. . A lower travelling velocity (speeeeeeeeed) is both prudent and practical.

To be most effective, the beam shape of a fog lamp is wide, with a sharply defined and straight, 100% top-side cut-off.- You don't want to scatter into the foggy stuff, just sneak in UNDER it all.

The Europeans, having lots of experience and common sense, were supporters of narrow-spectrum YELLOW coloured lamps, as having greater penetration into mist with the least amount of chromatic dispersion compared to 'white' light. Again, a sensible approach. "Sodium Yellow" being the preferred.

Sadly, fog lamps now are often used to declare the owner's, um, 'personal habits'.... Gives pleasure to them alone, but distracts & annoys everyone else[bigwhistle][bigwhistle][bigwhistle].

As for 'Daylight Running Lights'.... too many of them are distracting and DAZZLING. (LEDs being the chief offenders, lines or rings or shapes of tiny, ultra-bright miniature Suns....)
Using several hundred to thousand lumens to get 'Noticed' is wonderful... but at the risk of 'distracting' or 'fixating' the on-coming drivers ?????????? The (mis) 'users' of Fog and Auxillary Driving Lamps don't know or Care about the Regulations ... 'Encouragement' is required!

It comes back to enforcement / Law, the term 'Dazzle' is a Regulatory one, used in the ADRs.
It needs more... exercise.[bigwhistle]

[101RRS]

DRLs do not operate when the headlights are on and I believe they are limited to about 25w. Fog lamps can be any power (55w) in my RRS and can operate independent of the headlamps. By law can only be turned on in poor vis/inclement weather, fog etc.

Many modern cars have combined DRLs and parkers - during the day they are on and are bright but when the headlamps are turned on they reduce in power and then become the parkers.

[austastar]

Hi,
I suspect a lot of the fog lights are miss aligned.
As mentioned previously, the have a wide, flat beam to light the road, but under the fog, and should not reach as high as a car window.
Cheers

[bee utey]

People I've spoken to about their fog lights being on are often unaware that they actually have a separate switch to kill them. When everything goes out with the key thinking goes out the window too.

[Eevo]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century

[trout1105]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century

Just turn your headlights on using low beam, No need whatsoever to use Fog lights to be visible.

[Mick_Marsh]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century
Well, they're targeting you. It was a SAPOL thing I heard on the radio.

[Eevo]

Just turn your headlights on using low beam, No need whatsoever to use Fog lights to be visible.
got those on too.

[Eevo]

Well, they're targeting you. It was a SAPOL thing I heard on the radio.

i keep complaining about those blinding red n blue lights they have on their roof.
such a distraction!

[p38arover]

Then there are those twits who drive around with their rear fog lights on.

[BigBlackDog]

The thread title only showed "let's have a general discussion about fog".
odd I thought, but ok, I'm in. Disappointed [bigwhistle]

[Gordie]

Good, hit them hard, fine them. If they plead ignorance of the law, they shouldn't be driving...if they are deliberately flouting the law...well they get what comes. I am sick of burnt retinas.

[weeds]

I had a hire car the other week......every now and than a car would flash his lights, I kept checking high beam than it dawn on me that the other light on the dash might be for fog lights......

Appears it was.

Gordie, I hop in a hire car every other week......it's difficult to get ones head around all the different makes and models

[p38arover]

But the dash symbols are pretty much standardised.

[weeds]

But the dash symbols are pretty much standardised.

I don't own a car with fog lights, my work car doesn't have them either.....this was the first hire car where the fog lights were on..I figured it out after I kept getting flashed.

At least more and more hire cars have apple car play, at least I don't have to work out pairing the phone

[trout1105]

The lights on the front of my bus turn night into day and I love the fact that I can burn the retinas of tossers that insist on running their fog lights [bigwhistle]

[rrturboD]

Irrespective of the legal use or otherwise ... I find that poorly aimed lights are the issue. Even front fog lights should be inclined down (like low beam) otherwise in fog they would light up the fog in drivers view etc. Aim them correctly, no issue, but point them up ... you will at least get a high beam and driving light flash from me!

[Eevo]

Irrespective of the legal use or otherwise ... I find that poorly aimed lights are the issue. Even front fog lights should be inclined down (like low beam) otherwise in fog they would light up the fog in drivers view etc. Aim them correctly, no issue, but point them up ... you will at least get a high beam and driving light flash from me!


i agree. HIDs and fog lights in. never have anyone flash me.

[trout1105]

Personally I cannot see why anyone would need to use their fog lights in a no fog situation, The light gain is bugger all and all that happens is you cause other road users grief.
The fog lights don't turn off when you dip your lights and by the time you eventually find the switch the damage is done.
If you need extra lighting get some spotties/lightbar the options are endless and the cost now is bugger all also hook them up so that they turn off when you hit low beam and dip your lights well before you pass or overtake.
Common sense and general curtesy for other road users unfortunately is on the decline and for the Police to target tossers that insist on using their fog lights inappropriately is a GOOD thing [thumbsupbig]

[350RRC]

The lights on the front of my bus turn night into day and I love the fact that I can burn the retinas of tossers that insist on running their fog lights [bigwhistle]

Yep, I've got HID's in my driving lights, which are normally switched to come on with high beam.

If I hit the flasher the HID's doing their initial ignite is like a supernova going off.

I've only had to do this with people coming towards me with lights on high beam, even in the daytime.

They get the message.

DL

[350RRC]

i agree. HIDs and fog lights in. never have anyone flash me.

I agree also, had HID's in my headlights for years aimed low and never got flashed.

Now using Wipac reflectors and halogen bulbs. A relay for every filament and big wire.

DL

[Mick_Marsh]

The thread title only showed "let's have a general discussion about fog".
odd I thought, but ok, I'm in. Disappointed [bigwhistle]
You need something with a wider screen.

[Eevo]

Personally I cannot see why anyone would need to use their fog lights in a no fog situation, The light gain is bugger all and all that happens is you cause other road users grief.
The fog lights don't turn off when you dip your lights and by the time you eventually find the switch the damage is done.
If you need extra lighting get some spotties/lightbar the options are endless and the cost now is bugger all also hook them up so that they turn off when you hit low beam and dip your lights well before you pass or overtake.
Common sense and general curtesy for other road users unfortunately is on the decline and for the Police to target tossers that insist on using their fog lights inappropriately is a GOOD thing [thumbsupbig]

you've missed the point completely.
its not about illumination. its about being seen.

[trout1105]

you've missed the point completely.
its not about illumination. its about being seen.

NO I think you have missed the point.
There is a difference between being seen and being a pain in the arse.
Your headlights on low beam is good enough so there is NO need to use the fogs and blind everyone else.

[Roverlord off road spares]

you've missed the point completely.
its not about illumination. its about being seen.

well why not just paint the car Hi Vis Yellow and we will see you, or just drive with your normal head lights on, you'll be seen also.

[Eevo]

NO I think you have missed the point.
There is a difference between being seen and being a pain in the arse.
Your headlights on low beam is good enough so there is NO need to use the fogs and blind everyone else.

if you being blinded, I suggest you see an optometrist.

i'll wait til you get-boned by a car who didnt see you and then i'll let you be the judge of whats good enough.

[Eevo]

or just drive with your normal head lights on, you'll be seen also.

i do drive around with them on.

[trout1105]

if you being blinded, I suggest you see an optometrist.

i'll wait til you get-boned by a car who didnt see you and then i'll let you be the judge of whats good enough.

What a load of codswallop, all that is needed to be seen is to have your headlights on low beam.[thumbsupbig]
If you are that paranoid about others seeing you that you HAVE to use your fog lights as well then maybe you might need to use public transport instead of driving yourself[bigwhistle]

[Eevo]

some more points

LED daytime running light are not considered fog lights, though they often cast a stronger light than a typical fog light. Why are DRL not blinding...


Fog lights differ from your normal driving lights and high beams. They are designed to reflect a horizontal band of light across the front of the vehicle, and a special shield built inside the light prevents the beam from being projected upwards. Whats that... not projected upwards...

[Eevo]

What a load of codswallop, all that is needed to be seen is to have your headlights on low beam.[thumbsupbig]
If you are that paranoid about others seeing you that you HAVE to use your fog lights as well then maybe you might need to use public transport instead of driving yourself[bigwhistle]

i think you need to go do some studies on human perception.

[bee utey]

you've missed the point completely.
its not about illumination. its about being seen.

And the idiot texting in his lap will hit you even if you're lit up brighter than Hiroshima. "Look at Moi" lights work about as well as St Christopher medals. People who aren't concentrating can miss entire herds of elephants crossing in front of them.

[Eevo]

And the idiot texting in his lap will hit you even if you're lit up brighter than Hiroshima. "Look at Moi" lights work about as well as St Christopher medals. People who aren't concentrating can miss entire herds of elephants crossing in front of them.

true. wish the police would focus on these people.
texting on phone, loss of licence for 12 months.

[rangieman]

Well it does seem it is the younger p plater commordore , souped upped ricer driving generation that like to drive around with their fog light`s on at night :bat:

If people drive around during Day light with them on it does not worry me so much but at night it is a totally annoying situation and should be Policed and enforced heavily [thumbsupbig]

[101RRS]

you've missed the point completely.
its not about illumination. its about being seen.

Hence the development of DRLs so you can be seen in the day.

[Eevo]

Hence the development of DRLs so you can be seen in the day.


i need to retrofit some to the disco.

[Toxic_Avenger]

So how much fog does one need to be faced with before the fog lights can be used?
A lot of fog, or just a little? Can we stretch the friendship to turning them on when behind a very smoky old truck?

[tonguewink]

[V8Ian]

So how much fog does one need to be faced with before the fog lights can be used?
A lot of fog, or just a little? Can we stretch the friendship to turning them on when behind a very smoky old truck?

[tonguewink]
Fog lightsYou can only use front or rear fog lights if it is difficult to see other vehicles or objects due to poor weather conditions—such as heavy rain or fog.
You must not use fog lights in clear weather conditions, whether it is day or night.

Other common road rules | Transport and motoring | Queensland Government (https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/road/common#foglights)

Other states would have similar wording/regulations.

[Saitch]

Fog lights

You can only use front or rear fog lights if it is difficult to see other vehicles or objects due to poor weather conditions—such as heavy rain or fog.
You must not use fog lights in clear weather conditions, whether it is day or night.

Other common road rules | Transport and motoring | Queensland Government (https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/road/common#foglights)

Other states would have similar wording/regulations.

Hmmm, there you go. I've been breaking the law for years as I always use my lower LED lights, for high vis, when on dusty roads , which are not "Weather" conditions, as such.


Also, headlights are not designed to be on 24 hours a day.

I'm with Eevo on his use of lights on a highway. I don't know what some of you are calling "Fog Lights" but I have come across a lot of vehicles with them on and have never been blinded or had my retinas burned!!!!! (Yes, the VN with the driving lights can be a problem[smilebigeye])
Storm in a teacup!

My LEDs in the lower part of the D1's bar only have a low beam carry at a very low height & are beneficial when dipping from high beam/light bar to low beam as my eyes don't adjust instantly to the change in lumens to the D1 low beam.

[Mick_Marsh]

Also, headlights are not designed to be on 24 hours a day.
I didn't realise your vehicle was on the road 24 hours a day.
How do you service it?
Do you fill with fuel from a tanker driving beside you? Much like the military aircraft fill in the air.
Changing tyres must be a challenge.

I do a lot of km. I don't have daytime running lamps or fog lights. I drive with my headlights on. No issues so far.

[DiscoMick]

The son from Brisbane was driving their Focus near Woolgoolga and had gone through fog and forgotten to turn the fog lights off, so he got booked. I don't think he's ever used the fog lights since.

If you want to be seen in the daytime use the parkers, not the headlights.

[Eevo]

Changing tyres must be a challenge.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rvACiBclFI

[Saitch]

The lights I have a beef with are the aftermarket replacement LED headlights that seem to be the go in older 'luxes and the like. Now, they are over the top bright!
Are they legal, by the way?
Steve

[DiscoMick]

Those boys have far too much free time on their hands.

[DiscoMick]

The lights I have a beef with are the aftermarket replacement LED headlights that seem to be the go in older 'luxes and the like. Now, they are over the top bright!
Are they legal, by the way?
Steve

Are they ADR-approved?

[jonesfam]

OK. Around Ravenshoe & Atherton there are big (highly reflective) signs saying "High Fog Area, Turn Lights ON!"
So which lights would they like me to turn on?
Jonesfam

[Saitch]

Are they ADR-approved?


Good point, DM! I don't see how some of them could be. A while ago a P plater in a 'lux had these headlights that were nearly Sky Blue in colour. Now that was eye watering, I tell you!

Steve

[DiscoMick]

I could be wrong but I think blue are illegal.

[Eevo]

I could be wrong but I think blue are illegal.


they definitely are.

[trout1105]

they definitely are.

Same as you Fog lights are Mate [bigwhistle]

[akula]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century

How safe are you if you dazzle and disorientate the driver of an oncoming car?

[bee utey]

How safe are you if you dazzle and disorientate the driver of an oncoming car?

I just want him to keep them on for every oncoming traffic cop, SA coffers need all the help they can help. [bigwhistle]

[Bearman]

Up this way we have the idiots who put brighter bulbs in their fog lights and use them as spotties. Shame the coppers here wouldn't police it a bit more. Most of the "fog lights" are dazzling in clear weather. When we do get a bit of fog in the winter you can see the dummies coming towards you with hi beam, fog lights and spotties/led bars all on. If they had half a brain they would realise you can see better with just low beam on.

[akula]

Hi,
I suspect a lot of the fog lights are miss aligned.
As mentioned previously, the have a wide, flat beam to light the road, but under the fog, and should not reach as high as a car window.
Cheers

Most Bullbars raise foglights up to car window height.

[Eevo]

Same as you Fog lights are Mate [bigwhistle]

nope. factory fitted. meet ADR's.

[Eevo]

How safe are you if you dazzle and disorientate the driver of an oncoming car?
they dont dazzle. :)

[Toxic_Avenger]

Give 'em the ol' razzle dazzle!
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/09/480.jpg

[trout1105]

I have factory spec fog lights fitted to my D2a and Yes they do meet ADR's I also have secondary lighting fitted to my bullbar that are "kickarse" that also meet ADR's But that doesn't give me the God given right to run them inappropriately and blind other road users.
IF running fog lights inappropriately wasn't a problem to other road users then it wouldn't be illegal to do so, it's as simple as that.

[Roverlord off road spares]

The law is the law, so why do people try to always justify their breaking of the law. Oh forgot its a me me me world out there.

[Eevo]

The law is the law, so why do people try to always justify their breaking of the law. Oh forgot its a me me me world out there.

could use that same excuse for same sex marriage,

[rangieman]

The law is the law, so why do people try to always justify their breaking of the law. Oh forgot its a me me me world out there.
And the whole world owe`s the younger generation [bigrolf] But what they are really owed is a good kick up the arse [wink11]

[Roverlord off road spares]

And the whole world owe`s the younger generation [bigrolf] But what they are really owed is a good kick up the arse [wink11]

No, the younger generation owes the banks, everything is on credit[tonguewink]


PS. Chris, I saw you were posting at 12.40 am, when I checked at 5 am this morning and now you are posting at
9am ish, you need to get some sleep.[bigrolf]
Cheers, Mario

[rangieman]

No, the younger generation owes the banks, everything is on credit[tonguewink]


PS. Chris, I saw you were posting at 12.40 am, when I checked at 5 am this morning and now you are posting at
9am ish, you need to get some sleep.[bigrolf]
Cheers, Mario
Sleep is over rated [wink11]

[Didge]

As far as I am concerned the dickheads who drive around with their lights on during the day, especially their so called bloody fog lights are just plain arrogant, ignorant and selfish knobs. They can have all the excuses under the sun to justify their "Look at me Kimmy" attitude towards other drivers, but to me they are just ******* - no better than the bloody lycra brigade cyclists who could use the back streets for their exercise but have some pathetic need to **** off motorists by toddling along at 25kmh on arterial roads pretending they're in the Tour De Toss.

[ramblingboy42]

could use that same excuse for same sex marriage,

mmm , a particularly interesting comment on fog lights.....

[trout1105]

mmm , a particularly interesting comment on fog lights.....

I agree, I have NO idea what gay marriage and Fog lights have in common [tonguewink]

[AndyG]

I agree, I have NO idea what gay marriage and Fog lights have in common [tonguewink]


They can both be a pain in the arse if used inappropriately [bigrolf][bighmmm]

[RANDLOVER]

We don't really need fog lights in S E QLd, so I had mine removed and replaced with Great Whites 120 spot lights. Which I've found much more useful, for blinding oncoming traffic, (only joking) for seeing cattle, roo's, rabbits. Actually I think the animals see the lights before I see them and get out of the way, as I seem to see less of them now, on or near the road.

[3toes]

Being in the UK have become used to driving in poor light conditions. Most people drive with their head lights on all the time to make themselves more visible.

Fog lights are fitted to all cars however they are not used unless required. Perhaps because drivers already have their head lights on. The keeping the head lights on is something drivers seem to have evolved not a law requirement.

If you can see with your head lights on you do not need the fog lights. You turn your head lights off when the fog lights are in use. Used to be a rule in NSW that fog lights were wired up so only one or the other could be switched on

Have used my fog lights about 3 times in the last 20 years of driving all over the UK and Ireland

[V8Ian]

Being in the UK have become used to driving in poor light conditions. Most people drive with their head lights on all the time to make themselves more visible.

Fog lights are fitted to all cars however they are not used unless required. Perhaps because drivers already have their head lights on. The keeping the head lights on is something drivers seem to have evolved not a law requirement.

If you can see with your head lights on you do not need the fog lights. You turn your head lights off when the fog lights are in use. Used to be a rule in NSW that fog lights were wired up so only one or the other could be switched on

Have used my fog lights about 3 times in the last 20 years of driving all over the UK and Ireland
Same in Queensland, easiest way to accomplish it was to feed a relay from the parking light circuit; that was until parking lights stayed on with headlights.

Don't stress about the clowns who drive with thier fog lights on all the time, they're easier to see than a sign that says "Caution ****** Driving"

[Pusser99]

Even worse are the rear red lights that are brighter than stop lights and are a true hazard

[Tow 57]

The other problem with the front fog lights being on is that the rear tails lights are also much brighter making it annoying to follow them.
I also noted a comment regarding the bright cyclist LED lights. I often pass head on a group of 20 or so and its like a road train coming down the road at you.
It is so bright I high beam them.

[Saitch]

The other problem with the front fog lights being on is that the rear tails lights are also much brighter making it annoying to follow them.
I also noted a comment regarding the bright cyclist LED lights. I often pass head on a group of 20 or so and its like a road train coming down the road at you.
It is so bright I high beam them.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/09/682.jpg (http://www.google.com.au/url'sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj6oeiE9LTWAhXHvbwKHXpdCZIQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.heardcountyrecreationdepartme nt.com%2Fk%2Feating-popcorn-gif-tumblr&psig=AFQjCNEFsTcDxwuFIA3XiE9a5pTDvUaCyw&ust=1506036124510065)

[jdinow]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century

So whenever I see you coming you won't mind me being on high beam with my LED lightbar on ... because the more I'm seen the safer I am.

[Alan7140]

Do we, or do we not have uniform road rules now in Oz? Assuming we do, and much publicised here in Tassie at the time, is as follows:

"The new road rules now require that a driver of a vehicle fitted with front fog lights (or rearfog lights) must not operate the fog lights unless the driver is driving in fog or otherhazardous weather conditions causing reduced visibility."

So if you drive with them on all the time you are a tool in the eyes of the law, and will be fined as such.

[Bessie-the-Saudi-110]

Same in Queensland, easiest way to accomplish it was to feed a relay from the parking light circuit; that was until parking lights stayed on with headlights.

Don't stress about the clowns who drive with thier fog lights on all the time, they're easier to see than a sign that says "Caution ****** Driving"

I have wired mine up a similar way.. They only work when the parkers are on and turn off when the headlights are turned on..

[tony66_au]

For me its simple

I just drive everywhere with my headlights on

[Greggy]

So whenever I see you coming you won't mind me being on high beam with my LED lightbar on ... because the more I'm seen the safer I am.
But the point is that fog light are NOT driving lights - they are considerably lower powered than low beam and not aimed up into the sky, so what's the problem?

[gilesy]

Just heard on the radio, the police here are targeting incorrect use of fog lights. They're dazzling other drivers, apparently.

So, when they pull me over, "Nah, mate, they're daytime running lamps."

So, what is the difference? I thought fog lights weren't meant to be dazzling bright. I know people who drive with their fog lights on all the time. "I want to see and be seen." they say.

What is your opinion?Fog lights to work in fog have to be a dull or yellow light to penetrate.

[TD50WA]

In WA it’s actually illegal to drive with fog lights on with another light exceeding 7 watts, so fog lights and parkers only, or headlights, but not both.

Fogs can only be used in conditions of reduced visibility, that’s the bit not described as to what’s considered reduced visibility.

The difference between daytime running lights is that factory fitted Drls either dim when lights are turned on, or go out completely, the light dispersion is totally scattered, and whilst appearing bright, actually don’t put out that many lumens (measure of light). Fog lights on the other hand are generally 55watts and are are low flat beam designed to bounce off the wet road, then reflect of the layer of fog back down to the road in a continual zig zag effect, hence only to be used in fog....speed is restricted as it should be if fog is that thick for fog lights to work as they are actually designed to operate.

Foglights should only illuminate a few meters in front and side of the car in non fog conditions, being a very spread beam design. If they don’t, and shine we’ll up the road, then they are wrongly adjusted....or wrongly designed regardless of oem or aftermarket hype.

[bazzle]

There are 2 issues as I see it.

1. Fog lights adjusted down where they should be will NOT affect oncoming traffic at all.
2. People swap fog lights out for driving lights , especially in bull bars then leave the switching as per fog lights.

All the police need to do is hold their clipboard over the light to check the pattern.
The fuss re "proper" fog lights is misled and wrongly reported.

Bazzle

[bee utey]

But the point is that fog light are NOT driving lights - they are considerably lower powered than low beam and not aimed up into the sky, so what's the problem?

Surely you jest? Not many cars have properly aligned fog lights, then there are undulating roads and even a properly adjusted fog light gets into your eyes. Also, most fog lights are 55W just like low beam, so not weaker or more yellow. DRL's on the other hand should spread light more widely and most importantly be shut off when the main beams are energised. What makes you slightly more visible in broad daylight just makes you look like a dipstick at night.

[gilesy]

Surely you jest? Not many cars have properly aligned fog lights, then there are undulating roads and even a properly adjusted fog light gets into your eyes. Also, most fog lights are 55W just like low beam, so not weaker or more yellow. DRL's on the other hand should spread light more widely and most importantly be shut off when the main beams are energised. What makes you slightly more visible in broad daylight just makes you look like a dipstick at night.

I grew up in fog area Melbourne in the 60's. Fog lights were all yellow or you put yellow filters over your ordinary lights. Bright lights are useless. Recently, driving to work out west from the coast to desert over the alps I had to cope with heaps of fog mixed with kangaroos,wombats and horses. You go slow with as little light as possible as bright light just reflects back at you.

[Ultraflex4x4]

Just heard on the radio, the police here are targeting incorrect use of fog lights. They're dazzling other drivers, apparently.

So, when they pull me over, "Nah, mate, they're daytime running lamps."

So, what is the difference? I thought fog lights weren't meant to be dazzling bright. I know people who drive with their fog lights on all the time. "I want to see and be seen." they say.

What is your opinion?

ADR 13/00 states that Low beam is 1-1.5 Degrees below horizontal and fog lights are set 2 Degrees below horizontal. So if they are good quality fog light "dazzling" is a word used to describe the bill not the lights.
The law is the law and for all the good it does and the aggravation it causes, there are people out there that continue to buy really crap products
and blind other drivers. Hence the "blitz".

I don't think that drivers that pay for the right gear should be penalised however the laws like to make blanket statements.
We are stuck with that until there is another system.

Fog lights can only be used in FOG or inclement weather.

[gilesy]

ADR 13/00 states that Low beam is 1-1.5 Degrees below horizontal and fog lights are set 2 Degrees below horizontal. So if they are good quality fog light "dazzling" is a word used to describe the bill not the lights.
The law is the law and for all the good it does and the aggravation it causes, there are people out there that continue to buy really crap products
and blind other drivers. Hence the "blitz".

I don't think that drivers that pay for the right gear should be penalised however the laws like to make blanket statements.
We are stuck with that until there is another system.

Fog lights can only be used in FOG or inclement weather.

That's it fog lights are for fog. Bright lights are for wildlife detection. Go the police,book everyone who breaks the law!!

[superquag]

There are 2 issues as I see it.

1. Fog lights adjusted down where they should be will NOT affect oncoming traffic at all.
2. People swap fog lights out for driving lights , especially in bull bars then leave the switching as per fog lights.

All the police need to do is hold their clipboard over the light to check the pattern.
The fuss re "proper" fog lights is misled and wrongly reported.

Bazzle


There's another way, I call it the Sun Visor Meter. Checking the traffic behind is easy. Drop the visor as low as is safe...and note the quality of the shadow's edge from your head - lit up by the vehicle behind. If it's a soft, fuzzy outline, then the alignment, be it headlights or fogs, is acceptable.
But if the shadow is sharply defined and 'doubled', that is, one from each of his lamps, then this is 101% proof of mis-alignment, as there are 'Direct' light rays coming from the source, UPwards through your rear window, to your visor but being obstructed by your noggin. Gotcha!

It is possible to use a lower wattage lamp in your fogs, I recently came across a low-power globe in a locally compliant Jap car. Headlamp assembly had the aiming-angle and various bulb specs moulded into the plastic, this one being 'H3 / 35W'
It was. - Still ok, and the first one I'd come across.
Even with correctly aimed fogs / low-beam headlamps, in wet conditions the road surface becomes a mirror, reflecting the (correct) light back upwards... into oncoming traffic. Back to Square One. Best to leave the OEM 'glow-worm / 35W ones in factory-fitted luminaires...

Which raises another 'minor detail'.... Longevity. 100W halogen globes have a limited life, especially the 'Rally' standard of times past... 100W @ 12v The '13.2v' ones are better, and I used to have '14-point-somethings' in my Cibies, and Never had a blown globe.
If the OEM / car maker can source 35W bulbs, they've done so for a reason. Replacing them with unreliable 100W leaves you wide open to being BOOKED for defective lighting.... Oh, sorry, that depends on the frontline Coppers knowing their job... being motivated to DO it..having the support & direction from On High... so it comes back to Top Brass doing their well-paid job, Properly.

And that ain't gunna happen unless Joseph P Public tells the Coppers, - and their Masters, what is required...

my '2 lumens' worth...

[Ultraflex4x4]

I grew up in fog area Melbourne in the 60's. Fog lights were all yellow or you put yellow filters over your ordinary lights. Bright lights are useless. Recently, driving to work out west from the coast to desert over the alps I had to cope with heaps of fog mixed with kangaroos,wombats and horses. You go slow with as little light as possible as bright light just reflects back at you.

Done heaps of study on this trying to come up with a "FIX" for the dreaded Fog.
It has to do with what is known as "Rayleigh Scattering" and it's all to do with particle sizes and wavelengths.

The ONLY true fix is Infrared scanning laser from an angle criss-cross from each corner of the car.
And night vision goggles.

Yeah ..well I didn't even attempt getting that through RVCS.

[deltajuliet]

Thank god they're finally doing something about fog lights. I'm a country driver and it's a b.. pain to come over a slight rise at night and some idiot has his/her fog lights on. If I have passengers on board it often sparks a conversation about a 'look I've got fog lights' driver who doesn't know the road rules and is inconsiderate of other drivers.
Use low beam or running lights if you have them during the day to stay visible, at night use low and high beam appropriately.
Add fog light users when there's no fog to those who don't dip their lights.

[Davey]

Pet peeve - drivers with fog light on. So many dont realise fogs on equals rear fog as well shining in face of driver behind.

[superquag]

Done heaps of study on this trying to come up with a "FIX" for the dreaded Fog.
It has to do with what is known as "Rayleigh Scattering" and it's all to do with particle sizes and wavelengths.


'The Good Book' tells us that there is nothing new under the sun... So True. Go back EIGHTY years, and read yourself rich.
Are Yellow Fog Lights Better? (http://oppositelock.kinja.com/are-yellow-fog-lights-better-discuss-1788443727)

This is the Daniel Stern article, follow the links.
Daniel Stern Lighting Consultancy and Supply (http://www.danielsternlighting.com/tech/lights/light_color/light_color.html)

[cuppabillytea]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century

Do you ware HIGH VI24/7. Flouro PJs and all? [bigsmile]

[Melbourne Park]

My wife was driving her B class Mercedes (well gone now) with its fog lights on (not many of them had the fog lights). They were dazzling and super bright. They were mounted low close to the bottom of the front spoiler.

So one time I drove the car, I thought I'd turn them off ... and I couldn't. The switch no longer turned them off. Eventually the whole switch failed and that caused me to replace it. Replacement cost was I recall around $580. But fortunately they write off B classes (the first series of them sold here) with little damage, so at a Mercedes parts (and many others) place out Dandenong way I bought the same switch (but less than a year old) and it worked .... I think the fogs turned off, too. Yeh - they did ... those light on really bothered me.

Its not only the driver's fault when a fog is left on.

With the Mercedes, the rear red bright light at the back, was a separate switch ...

I could never understand why on a Euro car, the fog lights were so extremely bright ... utterly dazzling at night time.

[Hymie]

Just heard on the radio, the police here are targeting incorrect use of fog lights. They're dazzling other drivers, apparently.

So, when they pull me over, "Nah, mate, they're daytime running lamps."

So, what is the difference? I thought fog lights weren't meant to be dazzling bright. I know people who drive with their fog lights on all the time. "I want to see and be seen." they say.

What is your opinion?

Read the manual for your vehicle.
If the lights you have on are operated off a switch that has a Headlight symbol with what looks like 2 S's superimposed over it and there's a green or Yellow corresponding lamp illuminated on the dash, you haven't got a leg to stand on.

[Mick_Marsh]

Read the manual for your vehicle.
If the lights you have on are operated off a switch that has a Headlight symbol with what looks like 2 S's superimposed over it and there's a green or Yellow corresponding lamp illuminated on the dash, you haven't got a leg to stand on.
None of my cars, except a Moke, have fog lights. None have daytime running lamps.
The Moke fog lights (which are yellow) switch the headlights off when they are switched on. I wired them that way.

[Hymie]

None of my cars, except a Moke, have fog lights. None have daytime running lamps.
The Moke fog lights (which are yellow) switch the headlights off when they are switched on. I wired them that way.


Well you've got nothing to worry about then have you.

[lebanon]

I have been using a set of PIAA Off-road yellow fog lights for years.

As said previously, in order to get the best results they are mounted low on the Defender bumper and are aimed down. We get a lot of fog in the mountains and I appreciate the extra visibility they give.

I also use them at night in clear weather, they illuminate the road in a crescent shape few meters in front of the car.

[Eevo]

i have to confess, last sunday night i got pulled over while driving with fog lights on.

was given a random breath test, and sent on my way, fog lights were not mentioned.

[Saitch]

i have to confess, last sunday night i got pulled over while driving with fog lights on.

was given a random breath test, and sent on my way, fog lights were not mentioned.

And, was any of your breathing found to be random?

[lebanon]

ION yellow LED bars are the need breed of lighting for inclement weather. they are street legal and SAE-F compliant.

<span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: &quot;Open Sans&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">
https://youtu.be/At7eYrafjXo

[cloudy]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century

Yep. It's just another $100+ Flash for cash BS scheme.
I've had 50 + years on the road, never been dazzled by fog lamps, but from Chrome, rear vision mirrors & window reflection,? all the time.
They are 55 watt amber lights set low. Puleese??!!
My fog light switch is down near my right knee, for a reason.
It's quite possible to drive another 40K's not knowing they are on after coming out of the fog.
One narky cop, & it's "Gotcha!!"
It's just another scam.

[Mick_Marsh]

They are 55 watt amber lights set low.
No they're not. The ones on the newer cars aren't. They are white and bright and are like mini high beams.

[PECOX]

Done heaps of study on this trying to come up with a "FIX" for the dreaded Fog.
It has to do with what is known as "Rayleigh Scattering" and it's all to do with particle sizes and wavelengths.

The ONLY true fix is Infrared scanning laser from an angle criss-cross from each corner of the car.
And night vision goggles.

Yeah ..well I didn't even attempt getting that through RVCS.

Agreed but that will not stop the 'ktards with ultrabrites and sadly you also would be blinded by the very same..
(As much as i love the idea)

[V8Ian]

129863 129864 129865

All have foglights bigger than the headlights and are often upgraded to higher wattages.

[cuppabillytea]

Subaru :bat:

[DiscoMick]

Now that I have a lightbar, next time I'm blinded by some clown with his fogs on when where isn't any fog, they are going to get the full flash treatment - high beam, lightbar and spots - the lot.

[Bearman]

129863 129864 129865

All have foglights bigger than the headlights and are often upgraded to higher wattages.

That's a lot of the problem up here as well.

[trog]

Now that I have a lightbar, next time I'm blinded by some clown with his fogs on when where isn't any fog, they are going to get the full flash treatment - high beam, lightbar and spots - the lot.

Cool , then what will be the retaliatory strike be. , lasers ?

[Bearman]

Anyone who says they (foglights) don't dazzle oncoming drivers is either blind or doesn't give a hoot about other drivers. They are clearly a problem when used inappropriately or modified with brighter bulbs!

[sand_rover]

Somewhat confused as to the comments on being seen in here to be honest.
If this was a forum for mini's or bmw bubble cars sure but if you're driving a 4wd and someone doesn't notice you with regular low beams on then there's not much hope for you, not to mention that in an accident you're probably going to come out better than them.

Yes correctly aimed fogs are probably not going to get in anyones eyes but they also won't help you much if at all unless it's foggy so may as well leave them off.
The amount of incorrectly aimed fogs I've had shining into my eyes lately (while driving a lifted 4wd) is frankly ridiculous.
Unfortunately there is a lack of driving education beyond how to make a car go and (sometimes) stop which drives a lot of these types of things.

[davros]

Here in WA fog lights can only be legally used without headlamps on at all. They must not be used in conjunction with any forward facing white light over 7 watts. They are also only to be used in fog and inclement weather...

[bentleighboy]

Yep. illegal and useless if no fog. I recall this is worth 1 demerit point.

FURTHER, if you routinely use them in combination with low beams they will actually DECREASE your night distance vision rather than help- this is similar to driving about with your interior lights on. Eyes adjust to brighter conditions up close, causing pupil constriction and more cone cell activity (you want rods working at night)

So stop being wallys and turn them off unless there is fog. Or you will get a big flash from me with my Bi-Xenons. And a visit from Plod.

[gruntfuttock]

But the point is that fog light are NOT driving lights - they are considerably lower powered than low beam and not aimed up into the sky, so what's the problem?

Yes they are aimed down, but the problem is a thing called reflection. In certain weather conditions they can dazzle.

I used to come cross a car that always had his fog lights on, and when I crossed him in the rain on "hot mix" they were dazzling!!

[gruntfuttock]

i have to confess, last sunday night i got pulled over while driving with fog lights on.

was given a random breath test, and sent on my way, fog lights were not mentioned.

OK, you like to use your fog lights "to be seen" do you also used a rear fog light "to be seen" as well?

How about putting a strobe light on top of your car and a siren

[Eevo]

OK, you like to use your fog lights "to be seen" do you also used a rear fog light "to be seen" as well?

How about putting a strobe light on top of your car and a siren

the ute doesnt have a rear fog light


and yes, i do drive a vehicle that has a strobe light and siren on top. and people still dont see me!

[trog]

the ute doesnt have a rear fog light


and yes, i do drive a vehicle that has a strobe light and siren on top. and people still dont see me!

Maybe they are ignoring you ?

[gruntfuttock]

the ute doesnt have a rear fog light


and yes, i do drive a vehicle that has a strobe light and siren on top. and people still dont see me!

Then you should know better then to drive with them on when not in fog!

[Eevo]

Maybe they are ignoring you ?
i hope not. i'm usually in a hurry when i got them on.

[gruntfuttock]

It does not really matter if we agree with this rule or not, it is the law not to drive with fog light on if not in adverse weather conditions. End of story.

As somebody said before, it's the law, but hang on it's me so it does not apply.

I recently asked a copper why they don't pull over people for driving with their fog light on, and his reply was, and I quote "I can't be bothered with the paper work"

[Eevo]

Then you should know better then to drive with them on when not in fog!

yeah, shouldn't use them in smoke either.

[Chinamoon]

Just heard on the radio, the police here are targeting incorrect use of fog lights. They're dazzling other drivers, apparently.

So, when they pull me over, "Nah, mate, they're daytime running lamps."

So, what is the difference? I thought fog lights weren't meant to be dazzling bright. I know people who drive with their fog lights on all the time. "I want to see and be seen." they say.

What is your opinion?


Rear red fog lights can be distractingly bright at night. Some drivers seem to keep them on all the time perhaps thinking it improves their chances of being seen, but they are so bright as to be mesmerising and force a following driver to stare at them, distracting him or her from seeing other things. They should only be used in conditions of low visibility when other lights can't be seen easily from a sufficient distance.
Front fog lights are fine, if well designed. The police should not be fining people for having them on.

[trout1105]

the ute doesnt have a rear fog light


and yes, i do drive a vehicle that has a strobe light and siren on top. and people still dont see me!

If you are driving an Emergency vehicle responding to an Emergency then I have to agree that the use of fog lights along with the siren and strobes would be beneficial and would outweigh the problems caused by their use.
However the use of Fog lights inappropriately during normal driving conditions is totally unacceptable.

[p38arover]

Do you ware HIGH VI24/7. Flouro PJs and all? [bigsmile]

Are you trying to provoke me into a retaliatory spelling jihad, Cuppa? [bigwhistle]

[DiscoClax]

Thirteen pages.... Wow.

[Vern]

Thirteen pages.... Wow.Any of it useful or just the usual arguing over nothing?

[Mick_Marsh]

Called in on a mate last night. He has a modern car with the fog lights of which we are talking. He wanted to show me his new light bar.
What I found amusing, he wired it off the fog lamp circuit.

[Eevo]

Any of it useful or just the usual arguing over nothing?

i'm still a bit foggy

[SouthOz]

Now that I have a lightbar, next time I'm blinded by some clown with his fogs on when where isn't any fog, they are going to get the full flash treatment - high beam, lightbar and spots - the lot.

Im not a lover of fog lights on but. If you dazzle the driver deliberately and he swerves into your or someone else's path and causes an accident I wouldnt like to be in your shoes. [bigsad]

Dave

[Tombie]

Now that I have a lightbar, next time I'm blinded by some clown with his fogs on when where isn't any fog, they are going to get the full flash treatment - high beam, lightbar and spots - the lot.

Because a dazzled moron driving towards you is a good thing right?

[DiscoMick]

A flash is just long enough to get his attention.

[Mick_Marsh]

Because a dazzled moron driving towards you is a good thing right?
Apparently so.

For some.

Reminds me of when I drove around a right hand sweeper on a crest. The oncoming vehicle had his HID high beam, HID DLs and light bars on. I felt pain in my eyes. How we never had a head on collision, or I bounced off into the bushes, I'll never know. I couldn't see anything except for a painfully bright white light with a blueish tinge.

[Saitch]

One thing I have noticed with using the light bar is that, in certain conditions, it is difficult to pick up the glow of the lights of an oncoming vehicle and visual contact takes place before dipping. It's happened to me a couple of times and doesn't make me feel too good. I've always dipped lights at the first hint of oncoming vehicles.
But, I think I am digressing from the OP.
Steve

[trout1105]

Apparently so.

For some.

Reminds me of when I drove around a right hand sweeper on a crest. The oncoming vehicle had his HID high beam, HID DLs and light bars on. I felt pain in my eyes. How we never had a head on collision, or I bounced off into the bushes, I'll never know. I couldn't see anything except for a painfully bright white light with a blueish tinge.

From my experience here in the West it is quite rare to see a highway patrol car at night on the country highways policing this practice because people that do this sort of thing are as bad if not far worse than the fog light villains.
If you have these powerful spots and lightbars fitted it IS important to dip them earlier than you would standard lighting as the range and power is far greater than normal high beam so that what is described above doesn't happen.
It is NOT that hard to see the "Glow" of an oncoming car/truck at night So don't be one of them people that wait until the other bloke has dipped before you do, Dip early and play "Nice" with these lights.

[Tombie]

Actually it is more difficult....

On straight flat terrain it’s not too bad.

But on undulating or curved roads my Nemesis overpower the “tell tale” light you usually can see approaching around a curve.

This means I have just a fraction of a second to dip in these scenarios... hence I read the terrain and keep my fingers near the stalk to improve reaction time.

I agree completely that playing nicely is important to the safety of all road users.

[cuppabillytea]

Are you trying to provoke me into a retaliatory spelling jihad, Cuppa? [bigwhistle]

Well you have to admit, you've been a little quiet lately, but no it was just a laps.[bighmmm]

[p38arover]

Well you have to admit, you've been a little quiet lately, but no it was just a laps.[bighmmm]

Gaahhhhh!!!

[pop058]

Well you have to admit, you've been a little quiet lately, but no it was just a laps.[bighmmm]


Gaahhhhh!!!

:Rolling::Rolling:

[cuppabillytea]

Gaahhhhh!!!


:Rolling::Rolling:

But a Kiwi bloke told me "Tire's no 'e' in Spilling.:unsure:

I'll have to stop posting when I get home from night shift.

[Mick_Marsh]

I'll have to stop posting when I get home from night shift.

Why? That's when you do your best work.

[DiscoMick]

Night shuft?

[RANDLOVER]

I agree, I have NO idea what gay marriage and Fog lights have in common [tonguewink]


They can both be a pain in the arse if used inappropriately [bigrolf][bighmmm]

They also both have the potential to make your eyes water!

[DoubleChevron]

Oh ... you need fog lights on a car ( or as I call them, ****** lights ). "Look at me ... look at me .... I'm so cool" types desperately require them. The worst ( or is that best) user of ****** lights, is those that fit them to towering **** tanks with massive lift kits ... so they dazzle you as they are directed straight into your eyes when driving a normal car.

I rekcon the warning light on the cars dashboard to let the driver know there ****** lights are on ... should be a super bright, high intensity LED focused straight into the drivers eyes ( so they can enjoy their ****** lights, just like everyone else is [bighmmm] )

seeya,
Shane L.

[cuppabillytea]

Thanks Shane. Now let us know how you really feel.

I think I'll keep my lights standard dim, except for adding Driving lights for the next time I go way out west. Being surprised by Roos is not fun.
As for Fogg lights: I can't remember when I last wished I had them and why they come as standard equipment on any car is beyond me.

[DoubleChevron]

Thanks Shane. Now let us know how you really feel.

I think I'll keep my lights standard dim, except for adding Driving lights for the next time I go way out west. Being surprised by Roos is not fun.
As for Fogg lights: I can't remember when I last wished I had them and why they come as standard equipment on any car is beyond me.

They do need them in other countries. Out here they are a fashion statement ( It helps you pick the morons in society ... so that helps ). The idea of a foglight is to throw very bright light a few meters infront of the car ... under the blanket of fog. They must be very close to the ground and throw there light downward. The Europeans do them well.... Look at any passenger sedan from Europe and they don't dazzle.... they are almost always broken though ... 'cos they are so close to the ground.

Then we hit the "fashion" brigade. That MUST have them on as "they help them see" .... now the idea of foglights is they might light up a few meters infront of the car .... really you would need to be doing less than 20km/h to stop within the distance they illuminate. The geniuses that MUST have them on to see kangaroos (that's a good one I've heard a few times). So your doing 60->100km/h ... staring at the very intensley bright spot right infront of the car..... Ok, when a 'roo suddenly enters this illuminated area .... what are you chances of even getting your foot from the accellerator to the brake (let alone braking) .... Hint: None!

Oh the other one the "fashion crowd" loves is .... "it allow other poeple too see me" ..... Really ... .Wow .... Imagine if cars had this thing called "low beam headlights" fitted ... that illuminated the car really well without dazzling people.... This sounds like such a good idea to me, I reckon they should legislate every car NEEDS this fantastic low beam "thingy".

seeya,
Shane L.

[Eevo]

.. Imagine if cars had this thing called "low beam headlights" fitted ... that illuminated the car really well without dazzling people....
ha! so many new cars with fancy lights seem to dazzle.

[DiscoMick]

Thanks Shane. Now let us know how you really feel.

I think I'll keep my lights standard dim, except for adding Driving lights for the next time I go way out west. Being surprised by Roos is not fun.
As for Fogg lights: I can't remember when I last wished I had them and why they come as standard equipment on any car is beyond me.
Get a lightbar instead. It will throw lots more light to the sides, as well as giving as much centre light as spots, like this:
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/09/985.jpg

They do need them in other countries. Out here they are a fashion statement ( It helps you pick the morons in society ... so that helps ). The idea of a foglight is to throw very bright light a few meters infront of the car ... under the blanket of fog. They must be very close to the ground and throw there light downward. The Europeans do them well.... Look at any passenger sedan from Europe and they don't dazzle.... they are almost always broken though ... 'cos they are so close to the ground.

Then we hit the "fashion" brigade. That MUST have them on as "they help them see" .... now the idea of foglights is they might light up a few meters infront of the car .... really you would need to be doing less than 20km/h to stop within the distance they illuminate. The geniuses that MUST have them on to see kangaroos (that's a good one I've heard a few times). So your doing 60->100km/h ... staring at the very intensley bright spot right infront of the car..... Ok, when a 'roo suddenly enters this illuminated area .... what are you chances of even getting your foot from the accellerator to the brake (let alone braking) .... Hint: None!

Oh the other one the "fashion crowd" loves is .... "it allow other poeple too see me" ..... Really ... .Wow .... Imagine if cars had this thing called "low beam headlights" fitted ... that illuminated the car really well without dazzling people.... This sounds like such a good idea to me, I reckon they should legislate every car NEEDS this fantastic low beam "thingy".

seeya,
Shane L.

[Tombie]

Yeah, but that light bar helps Grey Roos disappear into Natural Flora due to glare and poor CRI [emoji6]

[DoubleChevron]

ha! so many new cars with fancy lights seem to dazzle.

HID lights ... they have a very aggressive cuttoff.... so as the car goes over bumps you get "blasts" of high intensity light. You know, I haven't noticed this much in recent times.... Maybe they have gotten better at controlling them ? Really low beam should only be standard lights.

Light bars and driving lights etc... are a different kettle of fish. As bright and big as you can get is fine with me .... You see you should never be on high beam when your driving towards me, so it doesnt' matter!

seeya,
Shane L.

[cuppabillytea]

Thanks Mick, but I'm with Mike. The lower frequency end of the Spectrum makes more sense to me to. I find a lot of detail is lost on the blue side.

[Vern]

Thanks Mick, but I'm with Mike. The lower frequency end of the Spectrum makes more sense to me to. I find a lot of detail is lost on the blue side.The cri of LEDS is absolutely horrible!
Can't beat good halogen, don't care what anyone says

[Tombie]

The cri of LEDS is absolutely horrible!
Can't beat good halogen, don't care what anyone says

AMA has released evidence that Blue Spectrum lighting is causing longer term problems also!

[Vern]

AMA has released evidence that Blue Spectrum lighting is causing longer term problems also!Its a horrible light, i will admit i have one, only there because i can't be bothered taking it off. Absolutely less than useless when the sea mist rolls in, you can't see 2 metres infront of the car, just a big wall of white! Turn it off and let the halogen headlights cut straight through it.

[RANDLOVER]

Yeah, but that light bar helps Grey Roos disappear into Natural Flora due to glare and poor CRI [emoji6]

You do realise there is no roo in that pic, if not LED's are a shocking light as I can't see one.

[DiscoMick]

Yeah, but that light bar helps Grey Roos disappear into Natural Flora due to glare and poor CRI [emoji6]
No roos, but the lightbar did send the old donkey heading for the shrubbery to get away from it.

[superquag]

The cri of LEDS is absolutely horrible!
Can't beat good halogen, don't care what anyone says

And that applies to (budget ?) LED torches, for which I must confess I have an almost unmentionable , um, fetish. (According to SWMBO)

I've got one 'warm white' LED cheapy (18650 lithium battery) that is supposed to be only 150 to 200 lumens... but it does a WAY better job - especially in bush/greenery - than others from similar manufacturers which claim up to 900 lumens. And yes, it was nearly double the price of it's Blue-ish light cousins. I normally only pay up to $25 for 2 ot 3 cell flammenwerfers... Yep, i'm a cheapskate!

One of my earliest toys, a FENIX (Good brand-name) TK 20 series is again a Neutral/warm White, 2x AA, and "up to 150" lumens. But it punches above it's weight, again because of the high Colour Rendering Index of 'warm/Neutral' white.


Which is why I prefer filament headllight globes wherever possible. Or HID of 3800 K for spotties.

[DiscoMick]

The cri of LEDS is absolutely horrible!
Can't beat good halogen, don't care what anyone says
I don't know anything about cri, all I know is the lightbar makes the Lightforce spots seem pathetic by comparison.

[trout1105]

And that applies to (budget ?) LED torches, for which I must confess I have an almost unmentionable , um, fetish. (According to SWMBO)

+1
I have got big led torches, small ones even ones that you can focus the beam on.
Each door pocket has at least 1 led torch in it as there is in the tool bag and rear drawers.
I have got a couple of them rechargeable torches that look like the old "Dolphin" torches with a normal beam, a fluro like light and even a flashing red light on them and on top of this it has a USB outlet that you can charge your phone on as well.
Every time I go to Bunnings or BCF I usually come out with some sort of torch or headlamp .

[Tombie]

Glare is often perceived as bright, when in fact, using a Lux meter it can be significantly lower...

Bright smooth light with no hot spots is far easier to drive behind, and CRI helps you differentiate between flora and fauna more easily.

Depending where you’re driving it can make a big difference.

CRI and Colour temp also makes a big difference in dusty or wet conditions.

[Mick_Marsh]

I just stumbled across this:
Best Driving Lights | Australia | FYRLYT Driving Lights (https://www.fyrlyt.com/ama)


I thought it might be of interest.

[RANDLOVER]

I just stumbled across this:
Best Driving Lights | Australia | FYRLYT Driving Lights (https://www.fyrlyt.com/ama)


I thought it might be of interest.

That is very interesting, I know the guys in the Discovery Pinnacles section seem to like them.

[Muddy Diver]

Front foglamps (OEM Fitted and correctly adjusted) simply don't dazzle oncoming drivers. They are designed to hit the road low and wide to light up sidings and centrelines. The cars main lights however are designed to penetrate further and higher so its not possible to be dazzled by the foglights as far as I can make out.
I have never been dazzled by foglamps even on clear nights and prefer to use these myself to light up the dark siding recesses in wooded areas so as to show any ambushing roos or wombats. Storm in a teacup as far as I'm concerned and silly to legislate their use.

[67hardtop]

My calais has em. If they dazzle you then you would have ur head about 3 inches off the ground

[DoubleChevron]

Front foglamps (OEM Fitted and correctly adjusted) simply don't dazzle oncoming drivers. They are designed to hit the road low and wide to light up sidings and centrelines. The cars main lights however are designed to penetrate further and higher so its not possible to be dazzled by the foglights as far as I can make out.
I have never been dazzled by foglamps even on clear nights and prefer to use these myself to light up the dark siding recesses in wooded areas so as to show any ambushing roos or wombats. Storm in a teacup as far as I'm concerned and silly to legislate their use.

Do you travel roads at 20km/h ?

[Bigbjorn]

Qld. TMR website has short and simple rules for use of foglights. They are not to used in conjunction with headlights, only with sidelights. are only to be used in conditions of poor visibility such as fog, mist, smoke, heavy rain.

I have a pair of USA "Perlux" truck foglights on my County. They are 100w GE sealed beams in a stainless steel housing with an optical hardened glass front cover. Being truck lights they need to be mounted minimum 24" above ground. Easy on a Land Rover but would not be possible on many vehicles. Very high quality well made items and almost universal fitment on line haul trucks in the snow states over there.

[Muddy Diver]

Do you travel roads at 20km/h ?

[bigsmile] Actually, no. Look around on other forums and you will see I'm not alone in my thoughts. I am referring to the factory fitted OEM fog lights which are purposely aligned to point LOWER than normal headlights on low beam. They also do not penetrate as much distance as normal headlights even on dipped beam in some cases and full beams will always dazzle upwards of 20 X more than OEM fog lights yet are legal in all weather??????? Tradies ute when loaded blind more oncoming vehicles than fog lights. I think that sometime in the past, aftermarket driving lamps have influenced this senseless law having been confused with fog lamps and police are just happy to issue tickets.

[Tins]

Qld. TMR website has short and simple rules for use of foglights. They are not to used in conjunction with headlights, only with sidelights. are only to be used in conditions of poor visibility such as fog, mist, smoke, heavy rain.

.

Vic is the same. The thing is, the lights most people here are referring to as 'fog lights' are designated as "low intensity driving lights", and thus avoid the legislation.

[Bigbjorn]

.

Vic is the same. The thing is, the lights most people here are referring to as 'fog lights' are designated as "low intensity driving lights", and thus avoid the legislation.

Qld. Police cal them foglights and issue the fine and points. Driving lights, according to the legislation, may only be used in conjunction with high beam headlights and under the same restrictions. "A rose by any other name!"

[Tins]

Qld. Police cal them foglights and issue the fine and points. Driving lights, according to the legislation, may only be used in conjunction with high beam headlights and under the same restrictions. "A rose by any other name!"

VicPol seem to ignore them, even those which have been modified and mis-aimed.

[Bigbjorn]

VicPol seem to ignore them, even those which have been modified and mis-aimed.

The legislation here only recognises fog lights and "additional headlights" which is the name given to Long Range Driving Lights and spotlights.

[DoubleChevron]

[bigsmile] Actually, no. Look around on other forums and you will see I'm not alone in my thoughts. I am referring to the factory fitted OEM fog lights which are purposely aligned to point LOWER than normal headlights on low beam. They also do not penetrate as much distance as normal headlights even on dipped beam in some cases and full beams will always dazzle upwards of 20 X more than OEM fog lights yet are legal in all weather??????? Tradies ute when loaded blind more oncoming vehicles than fog lights. I think that sometime in the past, aftermarket driving lamps have influenced this senseless law having been confused with fog lamps and police are just happy to issue tickets.

exactly ... unless your doing less than 20km/h ... anything you see in the light they create .... You WILL run over anyway. fog lights are designed to throw light under the fog .... for extremely low speed travel.

all having them on does is aggravate the hell out of other drivers ... there for the fashion "look at me ... I'm cool" crowd.

Sad Really....

seeya,
Shane L.

[Muddy Diver]

exactly ... unless your doing less than 20km/h ... anything you see in the light they create .... You WILL run over anyway. fog lights are designed to throw light under the fog .... for extremely low speed travel.

all having them on does is aggravate the hell out of other drivers ... there for the fashion "look at me ... I'm cool" crowd.

Sad Really....

seeya,
Shane L.

They probably aggravate you because you have never tried using them or been in a situation where you needed to. But you have hit the nail on the head. They annoy some drivers just because they are there and those annoyed drivers see them as a fashion statement or as wanky or tosser lights.
I have had Fog lights on just about every car I have ever owned and used them in fog extensively while living in the UK. Having driven European vehicles all of my motoring life (Or vehicles with fog lights) I find them of great use in the right conditions and this does not mean just in fog. I managed to miss a roo approaching Yass last year by inches because I caught sight of him on my passenger side in the fog lights wide spread. Saved the car front for sure as I was towing at the time doing around 70Kph and weighed around 5.5tonnes. I don't entertain that these lights make you look cool or are fashionable in the slightest because I have driven in conditions where their use is a necessity for staying safe. I think in Australia where the weather is much kinder than in UK and Northern Europe, they may have started with a fashionable look about them but time to look past that and exploit their good points. Fact is they just don't dazzle. (Unless you screw your eyes up in a blind rage staring at them while they approach you)[bigsmile]

[DoubleChevron]

They probably aggravate you because you have never tried using them or been in a situation where you needed to. But you have hit the nail on the head. They annoy some drivers just because they are there and those annoyed drivers see them as a fashion statement or as wanky or tosser lights.
I have had Fog lights on just about every car I have ever owned and used them in fog extensively while living in the UK. Having driven European vehicles all of my motoring life (Or vehicles with fog lights) I find them of great use in the right conditions and this does not mean just in fog.
I managed to miss a roo approaching Yass last year by inches because I caught sight of him on my passenger side in the fog lights wide spread. Saved the car front for sure as I was towing at the time doing around 70Kph and weighed around 5.5tonnes. I don't entertain that these lights make you look cool or are fashionable in the slightest because I have driven in conditions where their use is a necessity for staying safe. I think in Australia where the weather is much kinder than in UK and Northern Europe, they may have started with a fashionable look about them but time to look past that and exploit their good points. Fact is they just don't dazzle. (Unless you screw your eyes up in a blind rage staring at them while they approach you)[bigsmile]

Yes I own european cars ... they have foglights ... they have never been needed in Australia .... EVER. If it's foggie ... GO FOR IT !!! That is what they are for. Even my range rover has fog lights. I removed them. All fog lights do in australia is get broken and need replacement so the car is roadworthy. European cars have very good non dazzling foglights (that are also generally useless for extra lighting).

Foglights will NOT save you from 'Rooos. Unless you are doing less than 20km/h (so can stop in the tiny, tiny, tiny distance they illuminate).

THe only protections from 'Roos is a good strong bullbar so you are not left stranded. They damn things will still jump into the sides of your car ... the roof ... anywhere. At least if you have a bullbar you shouldn't be stranded with a smashed in radiator.

seeya,
Shane L.

[Roverlord off road spares]

Those low level FOG lights fitted on newer cars, I bet most of the owners driving them wouldn't even know the regulations or are aware of that there is a switch to turn them off.
Front fog lights are annoying but more annoying are the rear bright red fog light that make it look like their brake lights are on.
Drivers on the road need to be educated about these things, today it's buy a new car, get in, turn the ignition on and just drive.
Maybe it should start at driver training when they are doing their lessons and on their licence test, get them educated early and breed this out. They only get taught the basics of vehicle controls like where the head light switch is and the indicators switch etc.

[trout1105]

They probably aggravate you because you have never tried using them or been in a situation where you needed to. But you have hit the nail on the head. They annoy some drivers just because they are there and those annoyed drivers see them as a fashion statement or as wanky or tosser lights.
I have had Fog lights on just about every car I have ever owned and used them in fog extensively while living in the UK. Having driven European vehicles all of my motoring life (Or vehicles with fog lights) I find them of great use in the right conditions and this does not mean just in fog.
I managed to miss a roo approaching Yass last year by inches because I caught sight of him on my passenger side in the fog lights wide spread. Saved the car front for sure as I was towing at the time doing around 70Kph and weighed around 5.5tonnes. I don't entertain that these lights make you look cool or are fashionable in the slightest because I have driven in conditions where their use is a necessity for staying safe. I think in Australia where the weather is much kinder than in UK and Northern Europe, they may have started with a fashionable look about them but time to look past that and exploit their good points. Fact is they just don't dazzle. (Unless you screw your eyes up in a blind rage staring at them while they approach you)[bigsmile]

If you use you Fog lights to spot kangaroos you are wasting your time and are simply annoying other road users.
Do you turn them off when another vehicle is approaching so as not to blind them or just continue to use them?
If you are concerned about an animal strike then fit some driving lights that turm off when low beam is selected, Much better for seeing roos and they dont annoy or blind other road users.
BTW fog light DO dazzle and staying "Safe" is Not only about You its about other road users as well.

[austastar]

Hi,
Normally fog lights are fine IF they are alligned properly.
I suspect the ones that dazzle are adjusted up for distance, and being mounted low, shine in the eyes of on coming drivers.
Cheers

[Mick_Marsh]

BTW fog light DO dazzle and staying "Safe" is Not only about You its about other road users as well.
Let's not forget road rule #219

219 Lights not to be used to dazzle other road users
A driver must not use, or allow to be used, any light fitted to or in the driver's vehicle to dazzle, or in a way that is likely to dazzle, another road user.
Penalty: 3 penalty units.
I've been "dazzled" by such lights.
This rule should be enforced more often.

[rammypluge]

Fog lights as fitted to vehicles as standard equipment are only for very slow speed manouvering in white out and similar conditions.

They dont spread as far forward as low beam, you cant drive fast with them.

If you can use low beam, then you want the fog lights turned off, because they will just reduce the size of the pupil and give lesser vision at the front of the low beam spread, which is the important thing to see.

[DoubleChevron]

To be fair ... European cars have very good foglights that do not dazzle. However all the locally built cars are absolutely woeful. THey are "fashion lights" not foglights. After all they do not need to function as "fog lights" as most people that live in Australia will never see fog.

the fog lights fitted to european cars will often be used in the cloudy white misty stuff ... that reflects your headlights back at you.

seeya,
Shane L.

[Tombie]

Hi,
Normally fog lights are fine IF they are alligned properly.
I suspect the ones that dazzle are adjusted up for distance, and being mounted low, shine in the eyes of on coming drivers.
Cheers

Wrong...

Fog lights shine low and up..That’s the point!

We see light as it reflects off surfaces, we see colour as the surface absorbs some of the wavelengths of light.

Correctly aligned Fog lights do dazzle.


So put simply, if it it’s not Foggy of Dusty as hell..

Turn the ****ing things off!!!!!

[Eevo]

my brain is a bit foggy.
can i turn them on?

[trout1105]

my brain is a bit foggy.
can i turn them on?

They don't make them strong enough to do that Mate [bigwhistle]

[Tombie]

my brain is a bit foggy.
can i turn them on?

More like marker lights...

A bit dim and sometimes 50% fails to work.

[emoji48]

[cuppabillytea]

As Tombie says turn them OFF, especially in built up areas on sealed surfaces. If you don't, Ill assume you're a 24 Crt self exciter and treat you with all the respect you deserve.

[Eevo]

yes but studies have proven, people who drive with them on look 10 times cooler.

[austastar]

Wrong...

Fog lights shine low and up..That’s the point!


Correctly aligned Fog lights do dazzle.....


Hi,
My impression was that the beam columnation was low and flat to shine under the fog layer and along the road as much as possible so as to not illuminate airbourne fog which simply reflects as a white glare.

So I googled it

How do fog lights work? - Quora (https://www.quora.com/How-do-fog-lights-work)

Not exactly a peer reviewed article, but it makes sense.

Cheers

[DoubleChevron]

yes but studies have proven, people who drive with them on look 10 times cooler.

And there we have the reason I don't get along with most people :) .... Am I the only one in the world that doesn't give a **** what I look like, what brand names I wear and "how cool" things I own are :(

Actually... I'd love to be a brand snob. Make all my brands made here in Australia please. It's hard these days. Shoes for example I'm back to pretty much Redback and RM williams ( Yeah right, like I can afford RM gear [bighmmm] ).

seeya,
Shane L.

[bee utey]

yes but studies have proven, people who drive with them on look 10 times cooler.

Naah, just that their brains are emitting IR at under 273°K

[Eevo]

Naah, just that their brains are emitting IR at under 273°K

a bit dim?

[Roverlord off road spares]

remember when fog lights were yellow and areas in towns which were subjected to frequent fog had yellow overheard street lights, white lights are not very good cutting through fog.

[bee utey]

remember when fog lights were yellow and areas in towns which were subjected to frequent fog had yellow overheard street lights, white lights are not very good cutting through fog.

Back in the 70's all French registered cars had yellow headlamp lenses. Then someone worked out that yellow lamps reduced glare by 15% because they reduced the light output by 15%. Now everything's white, works just as well so long as it's aimed properly.

[Tombie]

Hi,
My impression was that the beam columnation was low and flat to shine under the fog layer and along the road as much as possible so as to not illuminate airbourne fog which simply reflects as a white glare.

So I googled it

How do fog lights work? - Quora (https://www.quora.com/How-do-fog-lights-work)

Not exactly a peer reviewed article, but it makes sense.

Cheers

And how do you think you then See that light?

[Tombie]

The light is flatter, and is looking to reflect back.

But on a dry clear day it reflects towards oncoming drivers... and look at the profile.
The last thing that happens is the approaching vehicle gets that beam in their face...

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/02/230.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/02/231.jpg

The beam is also only effective for around 30mtrs for the driver and at that point is losing effectiveness..

That distance is covered in 1 second at 100km/h.

Even if you did spot something hopping out from the side in that light, you can not, absolutely can not, respond to it in that 30mtr zone...

Human brains and reaction times can not calculate or react that fast.

Hence why decent driving lights are essential for regular night driving; you’re out driving the light before you can react.

[austastar]

Hi,
In the article I googled there was an explanation of the vertical pattern of fog lights and how they are designed to penetrate under the fog.

i.e.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/02/235.jpg

The lamp is mounted as low as possible and is pointed down 4 inches in 25 ft (101mm in 7,620mm) so if the light is at (say) 200mm off the ground on a city car, the light is aimed about 14m in front of the vehicle.

Not very far.
Not for driving at speed.
Only useful in fog and foul weather.


Aimed correctly (as above) they should not dazzle an oncoming driver.

My hypothesis is then, that any fog light (if indeed it is a fog light) that dazzles an oncoming driver is either:
a) not a fog light.
or
b) is incorrectly fitted.

Cheers

[manic]

Im thinking of putting a pair of yellow hella fog lights on the d90. Rally style! [emoji41]

On my last trip out in the dust I had to do some night driving. A car, or worse a passing truck, would kick up a wall of dust for 100s of meters! Even the dipped beam glared back at me. Couldnt see a thing.

Im curious to see how much difference yellow fogs make.

Forward facing fog lights on euro cars have never bothered me. Rear foglights on the other hand can be annoying when following on a dark country road.

HID or missaligned headlights can actually dazzle. And those who forget to dip or dip late are the worst!

[gruntfuttock]

Hi,
In the article I googled there was an explanation of the vertical pattern of fog lights and how they are designed to penetrate under the fog.

i.e.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/02/235.jpg

The lamp is mounted as low as possible and is pointed down 4 inches in 25 ft (101mm in 7,620mm) so if the light is at (say) 200mm off the ground on a city car, the light is aimed about 14m in front of the vehicle.

Not very far.
Not for driving at speed.
Only useful in fog and foul weather.


Aimed correctly (as above) they should not dazzle an oncoming driver.

My hypothesis is then, that any fog light (if indeed it is a fog light) that dazzles an oncoming driver is either:
a) not a fog light.
or
b) is incorrectly fitted.

Cheers

I agree in principle, however I will say that I drove for many years in Europe and I will say that fog lights even correctly aligned do dazzle, especially on wet hot mix, not so much on the roads in Australia, however the more water, the more they dazzle. Respectfully i say that although it gives an allusion of “seeing better” it actually does not make much of a difference. It just lights up the first 25 feet or so, which at 100kms is really useless and unless they are badly aligned the do not and should not shine out into the bushes on the side of the road.
Written from my point of view with no bad intentions or malicious intent. Have a good day

[Tombie]

Fog lights are designed to not glare the driver OF THE VEHICLE USING THEM.

The low positioned beam bounces up off the road into oncoming drivers...

Light is all about reflection, refraction and absorption. Our vision depends on it.

So hypothesise as much as you like...
Factory set, correctly adjusted, fog lights will dazzle oncoming drivers.

[Tombie]

Im thinking of putting a pair of yellow hella fog lights on the d90. Rally style! [emoji41]

On my last trip out in the dust I had to do some night driving. A car, or worse a passing truck, would kick up a wall of dust for 100s of meters! Even the dipped beam glared back at me. Couldnt see a thing.

Im curious to see how much difference yellow fogs make.

Forward facing fog lights on euro cars have never bothered me. Rear foglights on the other hand can be annoying when following on a dark country road.

HID or missaligned headlights can actually dazzle. And those who forget to dip or dip late are the worst!

In those instances you can dip to Parker’s if you’re game..

The yellow just reduces output more than anything so gives less light therefore less glare..

[manic]

In those instances you can dip to Parker’s if you’re game..

The yellow just reduces output more than anything so gives less light therefore less glare..Ah, I was hoping yellow light penetrated dust/fog a little better and reflected less due to longer wavelength.

Reflected yellow light should be easier on the eyes compared to the blue/white. I run stone cold LEDs, so I like the idea of having a pair of yellow halogen even if just for the contrast.

[gruntfuttock]

Ah, I was hoping yellow light penetrated dust/fog a little better and reflected less due to longer wavelength.

Reflected yellow light should be easier on the eyes compared to the blue/white. I run stone cold LEDs, so I like the idea of having a pair of yellow halogen even if just for the contrast.

The French used yellow light for years and only converted to white in 2000 / 1990’s and I was always told while I lived over there it was to see better in the fog. But they changed to conform with the EU laws.

[Tombie]

Ah, I was hoping yellow light penetrated dust/fog a little better and reflected less due to longer wavelength.

Reflected yellow light should be easier on the eyes compared to the blue/white. I run stone cold LEDs, so I like the idea of having a pair of yellow halogen even if just for the contrast.

The colour will be a lot nicer on your eyes for certain.

[rammypluge]

I have mixed hids and leds and headlights with std and upgraded globes, and found that different colours are just a negative. Not a big one in that case, but when i realised the hids werent adding anything and took them off, the leds were just unadulterated pleasure. And when a mob that did some work to my car somehow blew my upgraded headlight globes and replaced them with std, the dimmer yellower light doesnt go as well with the leds.

[trout1105]

After 3 years ownership I have only just noticed that I have a rear fog light switch fitted to my D2a, All this does is to illuminate the brake lights.
I think I have turned my front fog lights on twice since I have owned the truck, once to see if and how they worked and once because of fog.
Using them as driving/spot lights is a completely useless option and pointless as the spread is limited closer to the truck than the low beams are and we all know how useless low beam is for spotting roos or anything else on the road at speed.
Anyone who wants/needs extra illumination needs to upgrade the headlight globes or add spots/lightbars which are fitted so that they extinguish when low beam is selected and stop wasting their time and dazzling people with their fog lights.
Fog light are for FOG Driving lights are for DRIVING, Pretty simple really [biggrin]

[scarry]

Nope!

Jewelery for that.

Cheers


:Rolling::Rolling::Rolling:

[cuppabillytea]

Nope!

Jewelery for that.

Cheers

Tom Waits did a song "Diamonds on my windshield". Could be the one for you. [bigwhistle]

[timax]

i keep mine on 24/7
the more im seen, the safer i am.
the law needs to wake up the 21st century
Then you wont mind if i hit my Cibies at you so im easier to see also.

[timax]

But the point is that fog light are NOT driving lights - they are considerably lower powered than low beam and not aimed up into the sky, so what's the problem?
The problem is some of them are basically the same wattage as low beam headlights and you then have 4 headlights in the same area as 2. Twice as much light in some cases and especially bad in the wet when you also have reflection.

[UncleHo]

Living in Qld where we do NOT have annual RWC's checks vehicles which have had accident damage quite often leave panel shops after a cursory check,2 headlights low OK,2 on High OK, get it out of here [bighmmm] where as when I was living in NSW,annual RWC including headlight focusing, I wonder how many single vehicle accidents could be attributed to light glare [bigsad]

cheers

[wardy1]

I THINK in Vic there are very specific rules about the brightness of fog lamps. From memory they are not to exceed 50 watts (stand to be correct). The problem. Ow Is that because doggies are ‘cool’ they are being upgraded either to high wattage halogens or worse still, hid’s or LED’s. These I agree should be outlawed but the police in this state are so focused on speeding and drink driving (read..... revenue) that there is little or no policing of rules regarding lights. Even less about excessively noisy bikes and cars[emoji35]

[Muddy Diver]

Yes I own european cars ... they have foglights ... they have never been needed in Australia .... EVER. If it's foggie ... GO FOR IT !!! That is what they are for. Even my range rover has fog lights. I removed them. All fog lights do in australia is get broken and need replacement so the car is roadworthy. European cars have very good non dazzling foglights (that are also generally useless for extra lighting).

Foglights will NOT save you from 'Rooos. Unless you are doing less than 20km/h (so can stop in the tiny, tiny, tiny distance they illuminate).

THe only protections from 'Roos is a good strong bullbar so you are not left stranded. They damn things will still jump into the sides of your car ... the roof ... anywhere. At least if you have a bullbar you shouldn't be stranded with a smashed in radiator.

seeya,
Shane L.

Sorry Shane I apologise. My fog lights did NOT save me from the Roo at Yass. I stand corrected. Last Post mate....you win[bigsmile1]

[DoubleChevron]

Sorry Shane I apologise. My fog lights did NOT save me from the Roo at Yass. I stand corrected. Last Post mate....you win[bigsmile1]

Are you ok ?? Those mongrel things are even in the pine forrest behind my house. I have to avoid them at least once a week dong the school run through the plantation.

They are a real problem out my sister inlaws way. She hits them all the time.... the issue is you end up stranded. The only car they had with a bullbar was an old commadore wagon .... A big heavy roo bar. It the only car thats never driven into a 'roo ..... HOWEVER ... they have jumped into the side of it ... across it's bonnet ... into the windscreen... across its roof. They have hit pretty much every panel on the car except the bloody front bumper/bullbar.

seeya,
Shane L.

[3toes]

Driving in the U.K. and Ireland over the last 20 years I have needed fog lights twice. Have seen people driving with their fog lights on many thousands of times.

[Mick_Marsh]

The little-known road rule that could cost you $230 and two demerit points: How flicking one switch in your car at the wrong time could put you on the wrong side of the law (http://www.msn.com/en-au/motoring/news/the-little-known-road-rule-that-could-cost-you-dollar230-and-two-demerit-points-how-flicking-one-switch-in-your-car-at-the-wrong-time-could-put-you-on-the-wrong-side-of-the-law/ar-AAycfCM?ocid=ientp)

[loanrangie]

I couldn't see my back fence this morning because of the fog yet most drivers on the rd had no lights on at all, i only just found out how to turn my fogs on otherwise i would have used them instead of the parkers.

[Tombie]

The little-known road rule that could cost you $230 and two demerit points: How flicking one switch in your car at the wrong time could put you on the wrong side of the law (http://www.msn.com/en-au/motoring/news/the-little-known-road-rule-that-could-cost-you-dollar230-and-two-demerit-points-how-flicking-one-switch-in-your-car-at-the-wrong-time-could-put-you-on-the-wrong-side-of-the-law/ar-AAycfCM?ocid=ientp)

And didn’t they mess that article up!!!

[laney]

About time the police cracked down on those dam fog lights I travel out to work early morning 4am the amount of cars with there fog lights on is crazy cars with only one head light are just as bad.

[Eevo]

today i drove around with no headlights and only foglights on. oh it was wonderful, bliss!

[Toxic_Avenger]

what about them fog lights on those bloody cyclists?![bigwhistle]

[rangieman]

what about them fog lights on those bloody cyclists?![bigwhistle]
:Rolling:

[rovers4]

Here in Tassie, fog lights are needed by those who do any driving in the country anytime in the cooler months.

Not that they are needed all the time, its just that you never know when you will strike a patch of fog from April through to August. Could be elevated, could be in the valleys.

No need in the populated areas, normally. But there are times when headlights just get reflected back at you. Driving lights even more so and the streetlights might be visible but of no use.

Having said that, we have drivers who do not understand their use. They do not use them when they should, or have them on whenever it is dark, or turn all of the lights on in the fog.

Also, there are the batch of cars that came out a few years ago with low-mount driving lights under the bumper as well as the regular hi/lo beam combos. The idiots leave the extras on all the time when driving in built-up areas. Some even have them on during the day, thinking that they are a safety measure while not realising that all they do is dazzle the oncoming drivers.

[V8Ian]

Look on the bright side, it makes it easier to spot the tossers.

[Toxic_Avenger]

Dazzled twice-
Once by the lights,
second time by
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/06/95.jpg

[bob10]

About time the police cracked down on those dam fog lights I travel out to work early morning 4am the amount of cars with there fog lights on is crazy cars with only one head light are just as bad.

There are certainly penalties in each State.

The little-known road rule that could cost you $230 and two demerit points: How flicking one switch in your car at the wrong time could put you on the wrong side of the law (https://www.msn.com/en-au/motoring/news/the-little-known-road-rule-that-could-cost-you-dollar230-and-two-demerit-points-how-flicking-one-switch-in-your-car-at-the-wrong-time-could-put-you-on-the-wrong-side-of-the-law/ar-AAycfCM?ocid=spartandhp)

[DazzaTD5]

People I've spoken to about their fog lights being on are often unaware that they actually have a separate switch to kill them. When everything goes out with the key thinking goes out the window too.

Thats exactly right, most idiots driving around with their "fog" or aux lights on, dont even know it! While there is all this tech making it easier for drivers it seems more and more have no clue as to the function of the extra movement on the light stalk (be that turning or pull out function). I think ALL new cars should have a separate switch on the dash for fog or aux lights that way most idiots would never even bother to use them.

Oh and...... cant the idiots see the extra bit of light on the road?????

[Mick_Marsh]

The little-known road rule that could cost you $230 and two demerit points: How flicking one switch in your car at the wrong time could put you on the wrong side of the law (http://www.msn.com/en-au/motoring/news/the-little-known-road-rule-that-could-cost-you-dollar230-and-two-demerit-points-how-flicking-one-switch-in-your-car-at-the-wrong-time-could-put-you-on-the-wrong-side-of-the-law/ar-AAycfCM?ocid=ientp)

There are certainly penalties in each State.

The little-known road rule that could cost you $230 and two demerit points: How flicking one switch in your car at the wrong time could put you on the wrong side of the law (https://www.msn.com/en-au/motoring/news/the-little-known-road-rule-that-could-cost-you-dollar230-and-two-demerit-points-how-flicking-one-switch-in-your-car-at-the-wrong-time-could-put-you-on-the-wrong-side-of-the-law/ar-AAycfCM?ocid=spartandhp)
Because it needed repeating. Again.

[loanrangie]

Thats exactly right, most idiots driving around with their "fog" or aux lights on, dont even know it! While there is all this tech making it easier for drivers it seems more and more have no clue as to the function of the extra movement on the light stalk (be that turning or pull out function). I think ALL new cars should have a separate switch on the dash for fog or aux lights that way most idiots would never even bother to use them.

Oh and...... cant the idiots see the extra bit of light on the road?????


Also noticed a lot of vehicles with no tail lights on yet they have either fog or other lights on with dash lights ?

[Tombie]

Also noticed a lot of vehicles with no tail lights on yet they have either fog or other lights on with dash lights ?

Can’t be wired up legally.

To activate fog lights you need parkers on.

[rovers4]

No, you don't need parkers on, just the ignition.

[Tombie]

No, you don't need parkers on, just the ignition.

On what model? I haven’t owned a vehicle yet that allows it without Parkers.

[Tombie]

I thought I was correct.....
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/06/99.jpg

[Tombie]

And Pre Tdci Defender
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2018/06/100.jpg

[loanrangie]

Not landys but other vehicles.

[Tombie]

Not landys but other vehicles.

More likely a DRL style light.

It’s been an ADR requirement that Fog lights must Only come on with Parker lights.

Dash lights is just modern vehicles in general (and a key reason people forget to put lights on at night I’m sure).

[loanrangie]

More likely a DRL style light.

It’s been an ADR requirement that Fog lights must Only come on with Parker lights.

Dash lights is just modern vehicles in general (and a key reason people forget to put lights on at night I’m sure).

I'm not sure that they are fogs as i dont look that closely as i drive by, just noticed no tail lights but dash is illuminated and some minimal lighting on the front.
Noticed this on a few different vehicles.

[Tombie]

I'm not sure that they are fogs as i dont look that closely as i drive by, just noticed no tail lights but dash is illuminated and some minimal lighting on the front.
Noticed this on a few different vehicles.

It will be fools with DRLs thinking they’re safe but completely forgetting they have no rear lighting.

[rover-56]

Also, there are the batch of cars that came out a few years ago with low-mount driving lights under the bumper as well as the regular hi/lo beam combos. The idiots leave the extras on all the time when driving in built-up areas. Some even have them on during the day, thinking that they are a safety measure while not realising that all they do is dazzle the oncoming drivers.

Can't see how properly aligned fog lights with that sharp cutoff can dazzle anyone, day or night?
Terry

[Saitch]

Can't see how properly aligned fog lights with that sharp cutoff can dazzle anyone, day or night?
Terry

I'll go on record here stating that I have never been dazzled by factory fitted fog lights from any vehicle. Perhaps I'm disregarding another current perception, being that I should be affronted by the ****** who has theirs on when not necessary.

As a matter of fact, I've even got over being affronted by 4x4's with Max Trax, Wallaby jacks and fluoro handled shovels on their rooves in a shopping centre.

[Tombie]

Can't see how properly aligned fog lights with that sharp cutoff can dazzle anyone, day or night?
Terry

Because they reflect UP from the road... directly into driver vision.

On a wet but not foggy or raining road they’re bloody horrible.

[trout1105]

Can't see how properly aligned fog lights with that sharp cutoff can dazzle anyone, day or night?
Terry

That is probably because you are sitting behind yours and not in front of them[bigwhistle]

[weeds]

I'll go on record here stating that I have never been dazzled by factory fitted fog lights from any vehicle. Perhaps I'm disregarding another current perception, being that I should be affronted by the ****** who has theirs on when not necessary.

As a matter of fact, I've even got over being affronted by 4x4's with Max Trax, Wallaby jacks and fluoro handled shovels on their rooves in a shopping centre.

I’m with you......notice the odd car every now and than but it doesn’t bother me.

Did have a hire car awhile ago and got flashed twice, so I hopped out and had a look at the front and noticed the fog lights were on, worked out how to turn them off only to be flashed a number of times during the hire.

Figured it must have been an issue with the headlights as I always drive with headlights on.

[rover-56]

Because they reflect UP from the road... directly into driver vision.

On a wet but not foggy or raining road they’re bloody horrible.

Ah. Ok that makes sense.

[rover-56]

That is probably because you are sitting behind yours and not in front of them[bigwhistle]

[biggrin]OK. But I have never owned a car with foglights until the recent P38 purchase, and I haven't used them yet. (Yes they are turned off[bigsmile1])
I think they turn off with the ignition and stay off.
Terry

[Hymie]

.

Vic is the same. The thing is, the lights most people here are referring to as 'fog lights' are designated as "low intensity driving lights", and thus avoid the legislation.

There's no such thing as Low Intensity Driving Light.

[laney]

fog lights=****** lights why any one needs to use them in normal condition's has me buggered but i have enought light power on the front of my car to make there life very unpleasant indeed.

[Eevo]

i never turn mine off.

[DiscoMick]

i never turn mine off.That's illegal and you can be booked for using them when there is no fog, as my son was.