Driving in Europe. What you need to know.
Low emmission zones - More than 170 cities and towns across 10 countries around Europe already have in place, or are launching, 'Low Emission Zones' - areas where the highest polluting vehicles are regulated and monitored in some way. Vehicles could be completely banned or in some cases charged if they enter these zones and their emissions are over a certain level. If you're considering a motoring holiday in Europe it's very important to know where these Low Emission Zones are, what vehicles are affected? What standards are required? And also whether registration is needed or not. At the moment most of these zones affect only vans and lorries but some, including those in Germany and Italy, include passenger cars too. More info can be found: http://www.lowemissionzones.eu/
European breakdown and Insurance cover – Always make sure you have breakdown and insurance cover when you drive in any other country than that of your country of residence – this is usually included at extra cost when you hire a car however if you plan to take your own vehicle you will need to let your insurance company know and also whoever your breakdown cover is with.
Travel Insurance – Even though you are driving yourself to your holiday destination, you still need travel insurance and this often gets forgotten! ALWAYS make sure you have travel insurance, lets face it, would you drive your car uninsured?
Driving Myths include: I can use my mobile phone abroad when driving – this is wrong, many countries are as stringent about the use of phones when driving as the UK / I can have a drink and get in my car while I'm abroad – this is wrong, drinking and driving is a dangerous mixture in any country and the law will deal with you very severley / As I am driving I can take my dog fluffy with me – This is wrong – taking an animal out of the UK involves up to 6 months of quarantine unless your little furry friend has an authorised pet passport / I can take more luggage – this is wrong! You can be fined if your vehicle has been overloaded with luggage and/or people in certain countries
What does the research reveal about driving in Europe in our area?
Research collated on behalf of Vroom Vroom Vroom has shown that more men than women admit to being at fault when driving abroad. Also, according to only one in five Europeans believe that Britons drive carefully while on the continent. So when you think about an estimated seven million Britons driving off to European destinations this summer, that's a lot of bad driving!
Attractions of European Driving
Flexibility – go where and when you want without worrying about relying on other transport or air travel etc. Plus most people feel more comfortable driving themselves without the need to rely on public transport giving a sense of freedom. And with so many places to visit in and around Europe, driving a car makes your planning so much easier.
Why are driving regulations and laws such a minor consideration of Brit’s when they travel to Europe?
I think it is just a lack of awareness and knowledge because you take it for granted when you drive in your own country and you tend to assume that all roads are either using the same set of rules or none at all. Most people when they go on holiday are concentrating on packing and planning the enjoyable part of their trip rather than thinking of the basics – therefore its very easy to overlook this part of the planning.
Why is it so important to be aware of European road regulations before you travel – and how can listeners do this?
You are never let off in any country if you break a rule that is part of the law, and as the rules and laws differ so much in some cases between countries, it is important to know the relevant rules and regulations of the country you are planning to travel to. Theres nothing worse than being arrested when you have gone somewhere to relax!
What advice do you have for people considering a European driving holiday this summer?
Do your research! Not only do you need to know about health aspects before you travel, you definitely need to look into the safety rules, regulations and laws surrounding driving in another country. This information is invaluable and as they say, forearmed is forwarned! And of course – ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY!
Where can we find out more information?
The following websites offer vast amounts of information that will allow you to prepare properly for your trip abroad:
