Scared of breaking down and falling foul of laws abroad? Our holiday driving guide will make motoring overseas a breeze
As millions of Britons prepare to embark on summer holidays, a few simple tips can make sure you stay safe on foreign roads
WHILE getting behind the wheel on an overseas holiday can be exciting, driving abroad is not without its stresses.
New research has revealed what Brits fear the most when taking to the roads in a foreign country, with a lack of familiarity with their surroundings pinned as the largest problem.
A recent survey by online car servicing provider Servicing Stop has identified not knowing the local highway code and getting lost as the two biggest points of concern for motorists driving abroad, with more than 50 per cent of the vote from respondents.
Another 17 per cent said they most feared breaking down in a foreign place, while 14 per cent were afraid of falling victim to a carjacking or hit and run incident.
As millions of Brits prepare to embark on a well-earned summer holiday, we've put together a few simple tips that will help keep you safe on overseas roads.
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Drive the right way
One of the most common things holidaying drivers forget is that, unlike Britain, the majority of European countries drive on the right hand side of the road.
This means that if driving your own car, you'll need to take extra caution as you'll be sitting on the opposite side to other road users, making simple tasks like lane changing and negotiating roundabouts just slightly more difficult.
If you're hiring a car, opting for an automatic transmission over a manual one will make life slightly easier, and give you one less thing to worry about when adapting to a left-hand drive car.
Map out travel plans
While sat-navs are certainly recommended, it's always a good idea to research your journey on a map before you depart to make yourself familiar with the local road network.
A quick online search of the local motorway laws and etiquette in your holiday destination can also go a long way in making your journey as smooth as possible.
Check out country specific laws
Certain countries have very specific requirements set out for all drivers.
In France, Italy and Spain, motorists must carry reflective jackets for all passengers, warning triangles, headlamp beam deflectors and display a GB sticker.
France also requires each car contains two NF certified breathalysers, while Spain sets out that drivers that wear glasses must have a spare pair with them at all times.
Expect the unexpected
As is the case in any scenario while abroad, drivers should be conscious of any potential threats from other road users and the public.
Driving styles differ from country to country, so it's recommended that Brits drive defensively and never assume they know how another motorist is going to react.
Holidaymakers should also exercise vigilance in protecting themselves from violence or potential theft.
Don’t leave valuables in sight, check your vehicle is locked and park in safe, well-lit areas.
Prevent against potential car jacking by driving with doors locked, and sticking to main routes in well populated areas where possible.
Make sure you are covered for breakdowns
Most car insurance companies will offer European breakdown cover as standard, but it's worth making sure you have protection before you leave for your holiday.
Read the fine print on your policy to ensure you have the best cover possible as certain companies will send someone to fix your car roadside, while others may just offer a towing service.
It is always better to be covered for roadside assistance and repair - no one wants to be left to fend for themselves after their car is towed to the nearest local garage.
Watch out for car hire scams
If you choose to hire a car on holiday, make sure you've read all the conditions your rental conditions before you leave the car park.
Make sure you check the car thoroughly for any existing damage and have agreed on an insurance policy to ensure you are covered should you be involved in an accident of any kind.
Use your common sense
Most importantly, just because you are on holiday doesn't mean your common sense has to take a break too.
Always observe any road signs and speed limits, wear a seat-belt and take regular breaks on long trips.
If you are unaware of speed limits or road rules in certain areas, don't just copy the locals, they won't always be in the right!