Fog Increases Risk of Accidents

Last year, there were a total of 427 accidents due to fog throughout Austria. The particularly risky period is from early October to the end of December, as in 2024, 332 accidents occurred during this time span. Comparing the federal states, Upper Austria recorded the most fog-related accidents with 107, followed by Lower Austria with 98 and Styria with 69. Next are Salzburg with 38, Vorarlberg with 36, Carinthia with 31, Tyrol with 27, Burgenland with 11, and Vienna with 10 accidents.

Lemming Effect Increases Accident Risk in Fog

"Many drivers often instinctively latch onto the taillight of the vehicle in front. However, this provides a false sense of security and is also known as the lemming effect. On rural roads or highways, this behavior quickly leads to insufficient distance," warns Roland Frisch, chief car instructor of ÖAMTC driving technology. The statistics highlight the problem: In 2024, 62 percent of accidents occurred on open roads, 38 percent within towns. "Additionally, it can happen that by tailgating, your own driving speed no longer matches the actual visibility," Frisch continues. Especially in the early morning hours and in the evening, drivers should expect fog and adjust their driving behavior accordingly.

ÖAMTC Tips for Safe Driving Through Fog

Suddenly Appearing Obstacles: ÖAMTC Training for Correct Behavior

"In poor visibility, every second can be crucial. Those who have not trained the correct reaction do not know how to react in an emergency," says Frisch. In a course by ÖAMTC driving technology, participants learn how to safely control their car even under challenging circumstances. More information and registration options are available here.

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