With the cool weather starting to set in and Leeton shire experiencing its first big fog of the season last week, a warning has been issued to prevent accidents from occurring. 

The onset of the cooler months has prompted Leeton Shire Council to urge drivers to use daytime running lights in an effort to “be safe and be seen”. 

Turning lights on in the daytime is a simple way of improving your visibility to other drivers and road users, according to council’s road safety and traffic officer Steph Puntoriero. 

“Turning your headlights on in the daytime, even on bright clear days improves your visibility on the road,” she said.

“Many drivers forget to turn their headlights on at dusk and dawn or when it is overcast.

“The risk of being involved in a crash increases in poor light.

“It is not about whether you can see the road it is about making sure other drivers can see you.

“With winter approaching it is important to remember to turn your lights on in the fog to improve your visibility as the fog can linger across the shires roads till mid-morning.”

According to the NSW Centre for Road Safety, by simply switching on your headlights during the day the risk of being involved in a crash is reduced by up to 10 per cent. 

With many Leeton shire residents travelling to nearby centres such as Griffith and Narrandera each day for work, the warning is particularly pertinent for them to consider. “Headlights are the most effective way to make your vehicle more visible,” Mrs Puntoriero said.

“However, it is important that the correct lights are used.” High beams are not suitable and parking lights are ineffective while driving.

Motorists should only use their fog lights if driving in fog, mist, or other atmospheric conditions that restrict visibility. It is a legal requirement that once conditions improve and drivers can see more clearly, the front and rear fog lights need to be switched off.