DRIVING CAN BE A DAUNTING EXPERIENCE ON AN OVERSEAS HOLIDAY
WITH holiday season firmly upon us, it’s anticipated that millions of us will take to the roads on our overseas trips. In fact, 39% of UK drivers have driven in Europe.
Whether it’s a road trip through Europe in your own vehicle or a short hop from the airport to your chosen off-grid holiday destination, it can be a daunting experience taking to foreign roads.
Jardine Motors, one of the UK’s largest automotive retailers of approved used Audi, said:
“Driving in foreign countries and experiencing unfamiliar roads can require a slightly different set of skills, so approaching with caution and taking your time is always advised.
“There may be different rules on the roads to those you are familiar with, so make sure you check out the Highway Code for the country for any major differences.
“Once you are familiar with the roads, you can enjoy some of the benefits of renting a car, such as taking the opportunity to try out makes and models from different manufacturers. This can inspire your choice when you’re buying your next new car.”
Remember the correct lane!
Something that might seem obvious, but nonetheless important, is to remember that you are likely to be driving on the opposite side of the road to the UK.
Only four European countries drive on the left; the UK, Ireland and the popular holiday destinations of Malta and Cyprus.
For everyone else, it’s the right-hand side of the road, so bear this in mind when renting your car in France, Spain or wherever else your holiday takes you.
As a result, many of the lanes we take for granted on motorways and dual carriageways are reversed in European countries, with the overtaking lane being on the left rather than the right. Similarly, roundabouts also flow in the opposite direction so give way to the left rather than the right and follow them counterclockwise.
Get savvy with road layouts
Aside from lanes swapping over, your travel destination may have a few extra features on their roads which you’ll need to familiarise yourself with. When setting out on the roads, take it steady until you feel comfortable with the new road layouts.
Some European countries have dedicated cycle-lane networks that extend onto roads you may not be prepared for, such as roundabouts.
For example, the Dutch cycling infrastructure is built to ensure that cyclists are fully separated from vehicles on roads.
So, if you’re going to be driving in the Netherlands, you should expect to see a road layout that differs from what you’d expect on UK roads.
Checking these country-specific features in advance will spare you any headaches after you arrive.
Bring your documents
When driving in a different country, it is important to ensure that you take the relevant documents, including your driving licence and proof of vehicle insurance.
As well as this, as a driver you should make sure your vehicle is up to date with its MOT and road tax to avoid any issues.
Check legal requirements
Additionally, there are several items you are recommended to carry in your vehicle, some of which are required by law, which differ in European countries when compared to the UK.
For example, a reflective jacket is a requirement for all passengers in European countries, and a first aid kit is compulsory when driving in Austria, France and Germany.
Wherever you are travelling, check out the requirements for driving in that country. A bit of preparation can help avoid unnecessary stress or even driving penalties while you are abroad.
Know the route
Being unsure of the best route can be tricky enough to deal with at home, let alone in a different country with unfamiliar roads and surroundings.
Before you set off on your journey, make sure you are confident in your directions and use satellite navigation if you are unsure.
Don’t be afraid to ask locals, or those at the rental centre, of the quickest way – but be wary of taking any local shortcuts on those unfamiliar roads.
Take note of signs
When out on the roads, be aware of the differences in road signs. For example, the road speeds may be presented in kilometres per hour rather than miles per hour, which could land you with a speeding ticket if you’d mistaken the speed limit for miles per hour.
In fact, the UK is the only European country that formats speed limits in miles per hour. In many European countries, road signs are very similar to those in the UK, with warning/hazard signs typically being in a triangle, a sign giving an order such as a speed limit being a circle, and informational signs being a rectangle.
Ultimately, driving abroad for the first time can seem like a little bit of a daunting experience. Just take care to know the rules and the basics of the highway code for the country you are driving around, and this will set you off on the right footing.
Take care to pick up any unique laws or requirements for driving in certain companies and be sure that your insurance is up to date and you take with you all relevant documents.
All of these hints and tips will set you on the way to exploring by car and make the most of your trip abroad.
https://www.cycling-embassy.org.uk/wiki/dutch-cycle-infrastructure
The 'Travel' Life of Brian 