Guides on driving abroad some of this information supplied from insurance4carhire.com May 2009, other information on this page from various sources including Holiday Autos . It is presented on this site without responsibilty of jml Property Services / insurance4carrental.com and should not be relied on for accuracy

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Driving in Europe (with detailed country guides) | Driving in the USA | Driving in Canada | Driving in New Zealand |Driving in Australia |Driving in South Africa

Driving in Europe

See also:

Driving in Austria

Driving in Belgium

Driving in Cyprus

Driving in France

Driving in Germany

Driving in Greece and the Greek Islands

Driving in Ireland

Driving in Italy

Driving in Malta and Gozo

Driving in Monaco

Driving in Spain The Balearrics and The Canary Islands

Driving in Switzerland

Driving in The Netherlands

Driving in The UK

Emergency Telephones in Europe + more Info

Much of Europe may now be part of the European Union, but road rules throughout the continent are far from unified. Regulations governing speed limits, compulsory equipment and motorway tolls are just a few examples that vary wildly from country to country. But Europe also offers some of the world’s most spectacular driving routes, so it’s worth taking the time to familiarise yourself with the rules before you go.

Key rules, regulations and things to know

Make sure you’ve got both parts of your driving licence. You’re required to carry both your photo and your paper licences in all EU countries

Check that your hire car has the compulsory kit you’ll need. Reflective jackets, warning triangles, fire extinguishers and first aid kits are just a few of the items you may have to carry in your car, although exact requirements vary by country. Not all car rental companies include compulsory kit as part of your rental agreement, so make sure you check before you pick up your car.

Dip your headlights. This is compulsory at night throughout the EU and many non-EU countries. In Scandinavia and some parts of southern Europe, you’ll also need to keep your headlights dipped during the day.

Don’t drink and drive. Acceptable blood alcohol limits vary throughout the continent and can be as low as zero in some countries. It’s best to avoid drinking entirely if you’re driving.

Drink Drive laws -More information Here

Stick to the speed limit. Not only is it safer to do so, but European radar traps abroad are often hidden – making it more likely that you’ll be caught. Bear in mind many continental motorways have both maximum and minimum speed limits, and lower speed limits apply in countries like Spain and France when it rains. And contrary to popular belief, not all autobahns in Germany allow you to drive as fast as you like – about a third have strictly enforced limits.

Don’t use speed-trap detection devices. These are illegal throughout much of Europe. So if you’re using a sat nav with a radar detector, make sure you disable this feature.

Drive on the right unless you’re in the UK, Ireland, Cyprus or Malta.

Be careful about carrying spare fuel in a can in your car. It’s illegal in parts of Europe.

If you’re travelling in winter, check what tyres you’ll need. In Scandinavia, for example, winter tyres are compulsory between December and February.

In mainland Europe, you’ll need winter tyres or standard tyres fitted with chains when driving around ski resorts.

Look into motorway charges in advance. Many European motorways operate on a pay-as-you-drive basis, but some – such as those in Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Hungary – require you to pay a tax in advance.

Trams have priority on shared roads. This applies throughout Europe.

Ascending traffic and post buses have right of way on Alpine passes.

Seat belts must be worn by the driver and all passengers. And if you’re travelling with a baby or young child, make sure they’re travelling in an approved car or booster seat.

Be aware of any ‘unusual’ rules that may apply. In parts of Germany, for example, it’s illegal to wash your car on a Sunday. But drive that dirty car into many parts of eastern Europe and you’ll be breaking the law.

Carrying a warning triangle is compulsory in many European countries and also a reflective vest

When you rent a car in one of these countries (France, Spain, Belgium, Italy and other countries), make sure that you are supplied with the appropriate safety equipment.

Age of renters: Some European car hire companies will not let anyone hire a car under the age of 23 and many make a surchage for anyone under 25. The maximum age is 75 any many European countries, however it does depend on the company and with some there does not appear to be a maximum age.

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Driving in Austria

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits: Built-up areas: 50 kmh/31mph major roads outside towns: 100kph/62mph motorways: 130kph/81mph.

General driving: Drive on the right and overtake on the left. It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle, first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. A motorway tax disc must be displayed - weekly or monthly versions can be obtained. The following motorways charge tolls: A10 Tauern motorway, A9 Pyhrn motorway, A13 Brenner motorway, S16 Arlberg Tunnel.

The flashing of headlights is used as a warning. Dipped headlights should be used in built-up areas at night.

Motorists should not overtake a parked school bus with flashing red and yellow lights.

Horns may not be used where their use is prohibited by a road sign. This applies in many large towns and cities, (mostly at night), and in Vienna at all times.

Seat Belts: Seatbelts are compulsory in the front and rear.

Parking: A 'pay and display' parking system operates in major towns for which tickets can be purchased from tobacco shops.

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 50 mgs More information Here

Travel tips: Austria, bordered by Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovenia and Italy is not only famous for its excellent skiing resorts but its fantastic scenery. It has magnificent mountains, a breath taking lake district lending itself not only to skiing but to walking and climbing. The most popular tourist regions are Vorarlberg, Tirol, the Salzburg Province and Carinthia.

Information source holiday autos

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Driving in Belgium

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits: Motorway and dual carriageways 120 km/h Open Road,90 km/h In towns /built up areas 50 km/h (30 near schools, hospitals, churches etc). Radar traps are frequent. In Belgium heavy on-the-spot fines can be levied, however an official receipt should be issued.

Drink and driving: Belgium has strict drink driving laws, only allowing 50 mgs. More information Here

Names of towns on signs: Because the country is dual language, unlike countries such as Ireland and Wales where everywhere the names of cities towns and villages are in two languages, In Belgium if you are in the Flemish speaking area the signs will be in Dutch and if you are in the French speaking area they will be in French. This can be confusing for cities like Mons that becomes Bergen when you are in the Flemish speaking part.

Other names are: Antwerp — Antwerpen — Anvers, Ghent — Gent — Gand, Liège — Lîdje — Luik, Leuven — Louvain — Löwen

Seat belts front and rear are obligatory everywhere.

There are no tolls on Belgian motorways

A 'blue zone' parking system operates in major towns. Discs are available from police, garages and tobacconists.

It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle.Reflective vests are also complusory

Fire extinguisher is mandatory in the vehicle however First-aid kit is advised, but not compulsory.

Driving on side lights only is illegal.

Do not park within 50 feet (15m) of a bus, tram or trolleybus stop or in the immediate vicinity of train and tram lines crossing the road.

Traffic entering roundabouts has priority except where signs say 'cedez le passage' or 'vous n'avez pas la priorité', where the traffic on the roundabout has priority

Travel tips:One of the best kept secrets in Europe, Belgium has a wide raft of attractions including quaint towns, medieval cities, gothic cathedrals, castles, idyllic farmlands and cool coastal resorts. Famous for its chocolates, Belgium also offers gourmet food and has over 400 beers to choose from.

Both Dutch and French are spoken in this multicultural country and there is a small German-speaking minority in the eastern part of the country. Dutch is spoken by the Flemish in the Flanders region, known for its flat and coastal landscapes. French is spoken in Wallonia, the region of farms and forests.

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Driving in Cyprus

Driving: Drive on the LEFT

Speed limits : Built-up areas: 50kmh/31mph major roads outside towns: 80kmh/50mph major roads outside towns:100kmh/62 mph).

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 90mg More information Here

It is compulsory to carry 2 warning triangles.

Seatbelts are compulsory if fitted.

Dipped headlights should be used in built-up areas after sunset.

Use of the horn is restricted to emergencies only.

Parking is strictly prohibited at all times on a single yellow line, unlike in the UK.

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Driving in France

General Driving Tips (some of this information supplied by holiday autos)

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits : Built-up-areas: 31mph/50kmh outside towns: 56mph/90kmh priority roads and toll-free motorways: 68mph/110kmh toll motorways: 81mph/130kmh

Speed Cameras: There are more and more speed cameras in France (useful web site is controleradar.org/) They usually have a warning sign a few metres or so before you see the camera and it is often set on a dual carriageway in the central reservation to capture traffic on both sides of the road. They are much nearer to ground level than those found in Britain and Ireland. They are often located on motorways on more dangerous sections particularly when the speed limit is reduced to 110 kmh. Remember if you are driving a hire car your fine will be passed onto you by the car rental company.

If you are driving on foreign plates, don't think you are safe from prosection now. A letter in the August/September 2007 edition of "The Riviera Reporter" concerned someone whose son had passed an Italian radar camera that flashed him. The fine was passed onto the French authorities to pursue via the local Prefecture. The same writer also knew of someone who had been speeding in Switzerland and the fine demand went overeas. According to The Riviera Reporter "Harmanisation and intra-EU cooperation is under way and not only fines will have to be paid, but soon points will be deducted from your licence no mater where the offence was committed. This will include offences in the UK and any other EU country as well as Switzerland"

Radar Detectors: It is illegal to use these and you can be fined up to  1,500 and lose 2 points of your license. However it is not illegal to download a map of where the speedcameras are from the French Government website www.securiteroutiere.equipment.gouv.fr

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 50mg - barely 1 unit of alcohol. (0.5 grams of alcolol per litre of blood) More information Here

Traffic on major roads has priority. Where two major roads cross, traffic coming from the right has priority as warned by the sign 'danger priorité à droite'. Where there is no sign, give way to the right.

Traffic on a roundabout has priority and signs saying 'cedez le passage' or 'vous n'avez pas la prioritè'. In some areas the old rule of traffic entering roundabouts having priority applies so be cautious where there are no signs

If a driver flashes his headlights in France, he is generally indicating that he has priority and you should give way. This can be confusing as in the UK it usually indicates that a car is usually indicates that a car is letting you out.

Stopping for someone waiting at a zebra crossing is a fineable offence for holding up traffic. The crossings indicate where is best to cross.

Do not overtake a tram when it is stationary with passengers alighting or boarding.

Traffic lights don't show amber after red. Flashing amber means continue with caution.

It is compulsory for front and rear seat occupants to wear seat belts if fitted.

Carrying hazard warning lights or a warning triangle is compulsory. It is recommended that visitors equip their vehicle with replacement bulbs. From July 2008 A reflective vest is also complusory (like in Italy and Spain - In Spain you must carry reflective vests for all occupants).

Additional driving Tips

Driving Licence: A valid driving licence - If it is issued in the UK and the driver has passed his / her driving test at 17, you cannot drive a car in France till you are 18. The minimum age for car rental is 21.

Motor Insurance: If your vehicle is registerd in the UK, you are not obliged to show an international insurance certificate or green card, however proof of insurance may be needed so take your insurance certificate showing fully comprehensive insurance.

Vehicle Registration Documentation: Take your vehicle registration document with you, but don't leave it in the car (in case the car is stolen). If the car does not belong to you you should have a letter of authority from the registered owner and a copy of the registration document.

Traffic Lights: Traffic light sequences are like those in Ireland, Spain, Belgium, Italy and many other European countries. They are unlike the UK in so much as when the light has gone red, instead of going to amber, they go straight to green. However they go from green to amber to red to stop traffic. You will often find that at night or at other quieter times some traffic lights flash amber from every direction. This means that no one has a right of way, but all drivers must proceed with caution.

Seat Belts: It is complulsory to wear seat belts in front and rear and children under ten years old are not allowed to travel in the front seat (unless there are no seats in the rear). In the rear they must use a proper restraint system - bolster cushion. If you are driving with a dog, it is advisable to harness the dog in using a special dog harness. A dog like a human that is not secure in the back can cause serious injury(or death) to the front seat people if it is not secured by a harness.

Warning Triangles - First Aid Kits - Fire Extinguishers - Headlight convertors: These should always be carried - many manufacturers issue them as standard. In the event of a breakdown this should be displayed as well as hazard warning lights. It is recommended that a first aid kit be carried - again many manufacturers issue them as standard and a fire extinguisher. If you are driving a right hand drive car, you should put convertors on to stop dazzling oncoming drivers.

Contrôle Technique - A car over three years old must have a contrôle technique.This is to check that the card is road worthy. It must be completed every two years at an authorised garage. Check that your garage can carry out the contre-visite (the second visit after essential repairs have been carried out) is free. When your car passes the contrôle technique you are given a macaron contrôle technique a sticker that is displayed on your windscreen (Like in Ireland). If you are planning to sell your car you must have a completed within 6 months of the sale.

Motor cyclists: Motorcycles over 125cc must use dipped headlights during the day. A crash helmet is compulsory for driver and passenger.

Motorways - Autoroutes: The motoway network in France is excellent. The majority of the country is covered by pay autoroutes and in most places they accept credit / debit card payments at the pay points (Tolls) Péage. In many city areas the autoroute will be free in the zone around the city (not in Nice for example) and you will stop at a Péage to collect a ticket and stop at another at then of that section's toll road to pay. Most autoroutes are very well served by fuel stations, some with hotels. Approximately every 15 kilometres you will find an Aires - This is rest area with parking, tables and chairs for picnics and toilets, but no fuel. There are normally emergency telephones on the autoroute network every 2 km. These are orange and marked SOS.

It is illegal to drive on a French motorway at less than 80km/h (approx 50 mph) in the fast lane.

Fuel: Petrol - Essence | Unleaded - Sans Plomb (Green on pump handle)| Diesel - Gazole (Black on pump handle)| LPG - Gepel/GPL| Please note that most larger petrol stations will accept credit cards, however many of the automated ones will only accept a French one.

Travel tips:France, the biggest country in western Europe, has a wealth of contrasts. To the west, Brittany's landscape resembles Cornwall while the Loire Valley is home to ancient Châteaux and the Atlantic coast has miles of spectacular beaches. The Champagne region to the north east is flatter than the gentle wine-growing slopes of Burgundy to the south. The snowy and icy conditions in the Alps and Pyrenees demand careful driving between November and March.

See also: Identifying car hire cars in France

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Driving in Germany

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits: Although the autobahns in Germany are not subject to an overall speed limit (the blue speed limit signs, usually showing 130, are suggested maximum speeds), many stretches of autobahn are covered by signed speed limits, which are mostly closely observed by the Germans. Open Road 100 km/h - Town 50 km/h

Drink and driving: 50 mgs Over the limit and you could face fines, endorsement or even imprisonment. More information Here

Seat Belts: Seat belts front and rear are obligatory everywhere.

There are no tolls to pay on German Autobahns.

First-aid kit is compulsory.

A parking disc system operates in major towns. Discs are available from police, tourist offices and tobacconists.

Drivers license and vehicle documents should be carried at all times.

Buses have right of way when leaving bus stops.

Use dipped headlights in poor visibility. In built-up areas, the use of horns is only permitted for emergencies.

In cities, give way to trams and do not pass them at official stops. It is an offense to park facing oncoming traffic.

It is prohibited to overtake or pass a school bus which has stopped outside a built-up area when red lights are flashing.

Travel tips:Germany borders, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland and Switzerland. It has a diversity of landscapes which include the famous Rhine, Bavaria and Black Forest. The country is divided into 16 states known as Bundesländer which include the city of Berlin. Each region has its own distinctive character, dialect, traditional dress and food. In the East, river basins cover a major part of the landscape and the South is well known for its beer halls, Black Forest and Lake Constance. Along the Rhine and Moselle are steep terraced vineyards and beautiful castles. The North is best known for its seafaring cities of Hamburg and Bremen and its health resorts.

Information source holiday autos

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Driving in Greece and the Greek Islands

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits :Built-up areas: 50kmh/31mph major roads outside towns: 80kmh/50mph major roads outside towns:100kmh/62 mph).

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 50 mgs More information Here

It is compulsory to carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and warning triangle.

It is illegal to carry a can of petrol in a vehicle.

It is illegal to use a horn at any time in towns apart from warning of danger.

A motor vehicle parked at night on a public road must have the rear red light clearly illuminated.

Few petrol stations will accept credit cards.

Another car flashing its headlights at you generally means 'move over, I'm coming through'

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Driving in Ireland

Driving: Drive on the LEFT

Seat Belts: These must be worn at all times in the front and back of vehicles.

Mobile phones: It is illegal to drive a vehicle or motorbike whilst using a hand held mobile phone. Since September 2006 drivers caught using their mobile phones in a car. or about to use them face an automatic  60 fine and two penalty points on the driving licence. If the person does not pay the fine within twenty eight days the fine can be increased to up to  2,000 and penalty pointd doubled to four.

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 80mg More information Here (also see Lower drink-drive limits in Ireland September 2011)

Foglights must only be used in fog or falling snow.

You must not use a horn between 11pm and 7am.

Traffic signs: In the Republic these are like the ones found in the USA, Australia and New Zealand and in Northern Ireland they are mostly of the general European type which can be confusing if you go from one part of the country to the other. Below are a selection

No Entry Roadworks on the right

Traffic lights, school crossing and bend ahead

Danger Water Dual carriage way junctions either side

Bus lane Traffic lights 200 m

Junction to right on dual carriage way

Junction on left Roundabout

The 'give way' signs are red triangles with the point at the bottom and the words 'yield right of way' or 'geill sli'.

M50 Barrier Free Tolling system - Dublin - Ireland (SEE Don’t get caught not paying the toll on the M50 in Ireland - Blog June 2009)

Drivers of all vehicles using the section of the M50 between Junctions 6 (N3 Blanchardstown) and Junction 7 (M4 Lucan) are liable to pay a toll.

There is no toll barrier or tolling booth and therefore there is no cash payment facility available at the tolling point on the M50. Most car hire companies will have established account facilities with the toll operator (eflow), therefore the toll account will be automatically charged to a car rental company's account for each toll incurred. This will mean the car hire company will debit your credit card company for any tolls.

In the event of no arrangement you must pay your own tolls. You can do this on line at the eflow website or at shops and petrol stations that show the logo. You have until 8pm the following day to pay for your journey. If this deadline passes and you have not made payment at any Payzone outlet, online at ewww.eflow.ie or at their call centre (LoCall: 1890 50 10 50) Monday to Sunday 7AM to 11PM, a Standard Toll Request will be issued for payment (STR).

If you are renting in the Republic of Ireland check whether you can take the car into Northern Ireland. Some companies will make a compulsory charge of   25 (approx) to cover AA breakdown in that part if the country. A similar amount £22 approx) is payable if you are renting in Northern Ireland and want to take the car into the Republic of Ireland.It is best to check with the vehicle hire company in advance.

Travel tips:Ireland's scenery is the biggest attraction for visitors who can also enjoy traditional hospitality in lively towns and the buzz of Dublin and Cork. The Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry and the Connemara and Donegal coasts are firm favourites. The beaches around the south-east coast are best for swimming and the unsheltered western coast is great for surfers. Try visiting in June or September when it is less crowded and easier to get around

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Driving in Italy

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits :Built-up-areas: 31mph (50kmh), outside built-up areas on secondary roads: 55mph (90kmh), main roads 68mph (110kmh), motorways: 80mph (130kmh).

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 50 mgs More information Here

Drink Drive laws in Italy Update. Italy Magazine's March 2009 edition reports that the new Codice della Strada (The Highway Code) has stated that if you drink more than three glasses of wine or more than one brandy you will not pass Police alcohol tests. Apart from having the driving license suspended up to a year, the vehicle can also be confiscated and sold by the state. Note taking the above paragraph into consideration this cannot be correct if 50 mgs is equivalent to one glass of wine a driver would be way over the limit with the amounts quoted in red above.

A reflective vest is also complusory (like in France, Belgium and Spain).

Take care in city city centres like Florence and Rome. There are now charges for non authorised vehicles - similar idea to London congestion charge and because of inter-European co-operation the fines can be sent to the owners home, so foreign registrations will not help.

It is compulsory to use vehicle lights half an hour after sunset until half an hour before sunrise.

On three-lane roads, the middle lane is reserved for overtaking.

No full beam lights allowed in built-up area

Travel tips:Italy is traditionally associated with romance, opera, and passionate cooking. The hills of Rome and Florence are dwarfed by a mountainous peninsula, the Alps and Dolomites. Mainland Italy is also renowned for Vesuvius which is still an active volcano. Unless you are skiing, the best time to visit is during Spring and Autumn when the temperatures are best for travelling between places of interest.

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Driving in Malta and Gozo

Driving: Drive on the LEFT in Malta and Gozo

Speed limits : Built-up areas: 40kmh/25 mph, major roads outside towns: 64kmh/40 mph

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 80 mgs More information Here

It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle.

Seat belts are compulsory in the front and, if fitted, in the rear.

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Driving in Monaco

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

According to the letter section of The Riviera Reporter (December 2008/January 2009 edition) A Monaco resident reported "I've just been told that Monaco registered cars can only be driven by the owner. This means that I can't allow my car to be driven by visiting friends or family as apparently they would't even be insured". The Riviera Reporter reply. "This stems from a modification to the highway code dated April 2008.

According to insurance broker Eric Blair, who is in a better position than anyone to know the details concerning this situation, the new rules mean that any Monaco registered car can only be driven by the owner, their spouse/husband and children as they are declared Monaco residents and therefore "Carte de séjour" holders. Insurance wise, the policy could be considered as "nul and void" on the basis that if the driver at the time of an accident did not comply with local law, them the driver would be unauthorised to drive." The Riviera Reporter goes on to say "Eric is raising this matter with the Insurance Brokers?Agents Association to obtain their position. When The Riviera Reporter knows more they will print it.

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Driving in Spain The Balearrics and The Canary Islands

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits : Towns: 31 mph/50kmh, outside built up areas: 56-62mph/90-100 kmh, motorways: 74mph/120kmh

Autopista - autovía: Motorways and dual carriage ways - the autopistas are generally faster and have wider lanes. A lot of motorways in Spain are toll roads.Maxiumum speed is 120kph.

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 50 mgs The police can carry out spot checks. Depending on how much you are over the limit, you willreceive a hefty fine, lose points on your licence and have your licence suspended for a minimum of three months. More information Here

On uneven (odd) dates in one-way streets in towns, vehicles should be parked on the side of the road where the houses bear uneven numbers. On the side where houses bear an even number, parking is allowed on these dates.

Drivers in Spain who wear glasses must carry a spare pair with them at all times.

Grúa are the vehicles that remove and illegally parked car and the Depósito Municapal is the car pound it will be taken off to. To release the car can cost in the region of up to  140 plus a fixed fine of around  80.

Multa - Fines Non residents can be spot fined up to  300 for a range of traffic offences. These include driving or having a passenger without a seatbelt, talking on a mobile phone whilst driving or obstructive parking. Residents will be sent a boletin de denuncia.

Motorists must carry a set of replacement bulbs.

Reflective vests are also complusory (like in France, Belgium and Italy) - In Spain you must carry reflective vests for all occupants).

Triángulo de peligo - Warning triangles - You must also carry two warning triangles. If you have a breakdown on the motorway, you must place one of them 50 metres ahead of the vehicle and one behind. You must wear your reflective vest(above) to do this. On roads with two way traffic you must place one behind and the other in front.

Overtaking - Adelantar You must never overtake where there is a single or double white solid line. Outside built-up areas, signal your intention to overtake by sounding your horn in the daytime or by flashing headlights at night.

Stationary trams may not be overtaken when passengers are boarding or alighting.

It is compulsory for front and rear seat occupants to wear seat belts if fitted.

Carnet de conducir - Driving licence - A Spanish drivers licence must be renewed every 10 years unitil the age of 45 and then every five years from 45 to 70. After that it has to be renewed every two years. Each time that you renew your licence you must have a medical examination - Revisión médica. If you hold a British licence for example you must still have a medical certificate that costs around  35.

Since 2006 Spain has had a points system Carnet de puntos. Everybody except novice drivers started out with 12, if you don't upset the Guardia Civil or municipal police for 3 years you can win back points or earn extra ones.

L Plate (Learner drivers) These are white on a green background and you must display one on

Spanish Highway Code - Normas are the rules and regulations, there are almost 700 of these.

Señales de tráfico - Traffic signs - These are mostly of the general European (excluding the Republicy of Ireland) type.There are local variations like pedestrian crossing signs etc.

Speed Cameras -Radares At the end of 2009 there are just over 500 of these compared to 6,000 in the UK. Many drivers will flash their headlights to warn about an upcoming police speed trap.

Sat Nav: Known as GPS

Car and Vehicle insurance in Spain

Information below is provided in good faith, but as conditions are always changing, professional advice should be sort before arranging insurance.The information should not be relied on for accuracy.All vehicles must have at least third party insurance. Proof of insurance must be carried at all times. There are penalties for drivers of vehicles without valid insurance.

Types Motor of Insurance in Spain

Spanish insurance policies may differ to other countries standards, including EU countries. For example when a car is considered a write-off in Spain the insurance company will only refund a percentage of the value.

• It is obligatory for all cars to have - at least - third party, fire and theft insurance (part comprehensive). This is called: Seguro de terceros o de responsabilidad civil obligatoria
• Fully comprehensive "all risks" insurance (Seguro a todo riesgo) is available and often obligatory when leasing a car or buying on hire purchase
• Optional driver and passenger insurance (Seguro de ocupantes) provides compensation for loss of earnings and death. Special insurance may be required for exceptional contents and accessories

The Spanish insurance system operates on a no-claims bonus (bonification/sistema bonus-malus). In order to benefit evidence of no prior claims will need to be provided. It can significantly reduce the cost of insurance. The insurance premium may be reduced by electing to pay an excess (franquicia).

If an accident is caused by an uninsured vehicle, the damaged/injured party is entitled to compensation from the Insurance Compensation Pool (Consorcio de Compensación de Seguros).

If the car is registered in another country, a Green Card, (certificado internacional de seguro de automovil) must be carried in the vehicle.

Insuring an EU registered car in Spain

If the car spends over six months of the year in an EU country other than Spain it is necessary to take out a European insurance policy with the home insurer. EU regulations mean that all vehicles must be insured in the country in which they are registered. Therefore if the car is (for example) UK-registered it cannot be insured with a Spanish company. The vehicle can, however, be insured with a British insurer in Spain, by using the Spanish branch of a UK insurance company.

As the law stands a foreign registered car can spend six months per calendar year on Spanish roads without any additional paperwork. It can remain in Spain indefinitely as long as it is garaged on private land (not left on the roadside) for six months per year. The vehicle will need to maintain a valid roadworthiness (MOT in the UK).

To register a car in Spain it needs to be deregistered in the country of origin then re-registered with the authorities in Spain.

ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos )Vehicle Roadworthiness Test in Spain.

The ITV (Inspección Técnica de Vehículos) is the roadworthiness test of a motor vehicle in Spain. It is the equivalent of an MOT in the UK. ITV tests are compulsory and may only be undertaken by an authorised garage. The test exists to ensure that the vehicle is not a hazard on the road. It is compulsory for a vehicle in use to be roadworthy.

If a vehicle has been involved in a serious accident, it should undergo an ITV test after repair to establish whether the repair has been carried out correctly.

Foreign Vehicles

Vehicle roadworthiness is not transferable across the EU countries. A car imported into Spain must pass the Spanish ITV test before it can be registered in Spain; likewise, the ITV of an an exported Spanish registered car will not be valid in another country.

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Driving in Switzerland

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

Speed limits: Urban areas: 50kph/31 mph other roads: 80kph/50 mph motorways: 120kph/74 mph

General driving: Drive on the right and overtake on the left. A "vignette" must be displayed in your windshield in order to use the motorways. Rear seat belts must be used. Vehicles going uphill have right of way on narrow mountain roads

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 80 mgs More information Here

Travel tips: Switzerland, with its unique French, German and Italian cultural differences has something to offer everyone. From dramatic landscapes, the highest mountains in Europe and its quaint country settings to historic castles and heritage - all of these located so close to one another. The most popular areas are: the Engadine, the Berner Oberland, the Valais and the Ticino.

The Alps cause many climatic variations throughout Switzerland. In the higher alpine regions temperatures tend to be low while the lower land of the northern area has higher temperatures and a warmer summer.

Information source holiday autos

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Driving In The Netherlands

Driving: Drive on the RIGHT

General driving:18 years is the legal minimum age to drive a car (or motorbike over 125cc)16 is the legal minimum age to drive a moped Motorcycle and trike drivers and passengers must wear crash helmets

It is compulsory to carry a driving licence, car registration papers and insurance documents in the car (Dutch, EU and International Driving Licences are accepted)

Drink and Driving: Blood alcohol limit is 50 mgs More information Here

Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free system while driving. Even holding a mobile in a moving vehicle is considered an offence

'Blue zone' parking systems operate and discs can be obtained free from police stations. However, parking meters also operate in certain areas.

At intersections, cyclists proceeding straight ahead have priority over all traffic.

Buses have right of way when leaving bus stops in built-up areas and trams have right of way except when crossing a priority road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are compulsory in the front and rear of the vehicle.

Headlights should be dipped in built-up areas but it is prohibited to use side-lights only Drivers should pay particular attention to cyclists who may ride two abreast Unless otherwise signposted, vehicles coming from the right have priority Busses have priority when pulling out Trams have priority except where signposted at major junctions

Travel tips:The Netherlands, bordering Belgium and Germany are well known for flat and level landscapes, the bulb fields in the west, the lakes of the central and northern area, the coastal dunes, and of course the dikes, canals and windmills. The best time to go is from mid-may to early October as the Winters are long, damp and cold. The tulip season runs from April to mid-May. Of course the Netherlands are also famous for painters such as Rembrandt, Jan Vermeer, Frans Hals and Van Gogh.

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Driving in The UK

Driving: Drive on the LEFT

Speed limits: Built-up areas: 30 mph single carriage ways: 60 mph dual carriage ways: 70 mph motorways: 70 mph

General Driving: Drive on the left and only pass vehicles on the right.

At roundabouts, traffic coming from the right has priority. Review rules around double and single yellow line parking It is illegal to use a hand-held cell-phone when driving.

As long as you hold a full license in your own country and have done so for at least a year, you can drive on British roads.

Motorways are shown by 'M' plus a number on signs. There are no toll charges to pay on British motorways except the M4 Severn Bridge into Wales, the Humber Bridge near Hull, the M25 Dartford Tunnel and M6 Toll in The Midlands. Try and avoid the M25 'London Orbital' and the M5/M6 in Birmingham during rush hour times (0800-0930 and 1630-1800) as these can be extremely busy.

Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free system while driving. Even holding a mobile in a moving vehicle is considered an offence

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are compulsory in the front and rear of the vehicle.

Drink and driving: Blood alcohol limit is 80 mgs More information Here

Travel tips:London and Stratford Upon Avon - Shakespeare's birthplace are the most popular tourist spots. However, there are many other parts of the United Kingdom well worth visiting. Historical cities such as York, Chester, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Glasgow and Edinburgh. For lovers of the countryside you have a lot of choice from the West Country, Lake District and Brecon Beacons to the beautiful Pembrokeshrie coastline.

If you can avoid the busy summer period your visit may be cheaper and there will be less tourists. However, in the winter it often gets dark by about 4pm and many places of interest such as large houses and castles are closed over winter. As British weather can change very quickly, bring enough clothes for warm, cold and wet weather.

Information source holiday autos

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Drink Drive Laws - Examples of what can be drunk at present

It is not a lot and in some countries even to drink the glass on the right would be breaking the law if you drove afterwards in others a sip would be too much see "Wine" below

90 mgs South Cyprus: Three shots of ouzo

80 mgs UK, Malta and Ireland till September 2011 then 50 mgs : One-and-a-half pints of ordinary bitter US Canada and New Zealand: Two bottles of Budweiser

50 mgs Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Finland, Greece, Spain, Latvia, Australia, Portugal, Slovenia and South Africa: One glass of wine

20 mgs Poland,Norway, Estonia and Sweden: Half a shot of vodka

O mgs Estonia, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, Czech Republic: No alcholol

Information correct at June 2010

"Wine - even a sip will send you over the limit and invalidate your insurance in Parkistan, Cuba, Indonesia, Romania, Jordan and Nigeria, according to Rhinocarhire.com which produces a comprehensive guide." The A to Z of car hire - The Independent - August 2010

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Further Information:

Emergency Telephone number: pan-EU Emergency 112 Can be used in all EU Countries and it can be dialled from a locked mobile or a mobile with no sim card.

Driving abroad - British Government website. Contains general information about driving abroad and gives you the option to search for specific advice by country

Finally, Don’t forget your excess cover and buy it before you set off

Excess charges could cost you up to £1,000 or more. Protect yourself by organising your insurance4carrental car hire insurance before you head to Europe.

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