January 3, 2026 – Merced CHP officials issue a safety reminder to slow down when driving in foggy conditions. 

Fog doesn’t care what the speed limit sign says.

On New Year’s Eve, CHP Merced officers responded to a traffic collision on Sandy Mush Road during foggy conditions. Visibility was limited at the time of the crash.

As the incident was evaluated, it became clear that speed must always be adjusted for conditions. The posted speed limit is the maximum for ideal conditions, not a guaranteed safe speed when visibility is reduced.

Fog limits how far you can see and how quickly you can react. Slowing down and increasing following distance gives you more time to respond to what’s ahead.

Drive for the conditions, not just the sign.

Drive safe, Merced County.

Source & photos: Merced CHP