European Road Rules You Need to Know

Europe is one of the most varied continents in the world, when it comes to culture, tradition and law, meaning road laws can vary drastically from country to country. It is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times otherwise you could be heading for a fine, or worse a criminal conviction. Below we’ve put together some important road rules to remember when driving across this vast and varied continent.

Roads in Europe / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

1. In most European countries it is illegal to use speed camera warning systems. This rule includes any detectors that may be in built into GPS systems such as Sat Navs and smart phones. Ensure that you have any speed camera detection system switched off on these devices, by disabling the function through the points of interest category.
2. Italy is full of beautiful and historical towns and cities making it an extremely popular tourist destination. In a bid to keep traffic in these areas to a minimum, many historic centres require you to have a special permit if you wish to drive within them. Failure to produce a valid permit will result in a hefty fine, so it is important to keep aware of where the prohibited roads are located. This is especially important when visiting Florence, as public and prohibited roads intertwine throughout the city so keep aware.
3. France is a country famed for fantastic food and fantastic wine, a factor the authorities are only too aware of. Because of this all cars driving on French roads are required to carry a government approved breathalyser on board. If you are found without one you are liable to an on the spot fine – this applies for tourists as well, so you won’t be able to pull the holidaymaker card.
4. Cyprus is an unlikely country full of adventure, essentially a mountain in the sea this tiny island is a great spot for some off road driving into the mountains to find spots of natural beauty. However beware, it is illegal to eat or drink behind the wheel of a car, no matter how hot it gets. In order to keep hydrated and your concentration at optimum levels, pull over on regular intervals to rehydrate.
5. When driving on Spanish motorways and roads, it is of upmost importance that you always use your indicators, even if it is a last minute decision. Failure to indicate is a fineable offence in Spain, and the authorities are not afraid to in force the law.

For those that like to travel to their own schedule, and do not want the worry of keeping to train and coach departures, driving around Europe can give you the time and the freedom to see as much or as little of this fantastic continent as you wish.

If you are planning to hire a car, contract hire and leasing experts Tilsun Group offer the advice that, if you plan to travel for more than two weeks it may be cheaper to lease a car rather than hire. Hire cars come with lots of hidden extra costs, and can often offer costly insurance with very little cover. Research both options before you leave to make sure you are getting the best deal.

Ashleigh-Rose Harman writes on all manner of automotive topics, including latest news and technology, as well as driving law across the world, and has experience of driving around many European countries. 

Tags: driving in Europe, roads in Europe, Spanish motorways and roads

Category: Travel Tips