I would like to use this column to raise community awareness and alert all drivers who are dangerously breaking the law by driving their vehicles around with their fog lights on when weather conditions are clear and is now at epidemic proportions.
Road rule 217 clearly states the use of fog lights are to be only used in fog, dust storm or in heavy rainfall and the fine is $141 and loss of demerit points for using them outside of these weather conditions.
In August, The Courier ran an excellent article about the unlawful use of fog lamps, but to no avail.
On a recent clear evening I drove from Alfredton to the CBD and back, about 10km and sighted 27 vehicles with fog lamps dazzling myself and other oncoming drivers.
Of particular concern are the 4WDs and SUVs that are set higher off the ground and the lights are even more so right in your eyes.
I don't know whether it is a "yuppy" thing or drivers are not aware of the law but being dazzled by oncoming fog lights is certainly dangerous particularly in large numbers.
May I suggest that Ballarat police have a blitz on the use of fog lights.
DARREN RYAN
Alfredton