Driving right: European driving laws and you

Many British citizens take advantage of the proximity of the European continent and hit the roads in summer, taking in the great views, culture, cuisine and exciting destinations.

Taking Europe by storm in your car is a great idea, but there are laws in place, which all members of the driving community must follow. Avoid a run in with the long arm of the law and follow these great tips from Green Flag, a UK company which offers motoring assistance to drivers, breakdown insurance and much more.

Driving right

It’s only the UK and Ireland which drive on the left, so make an effort to never forget to drive on the right hand side of the road when driving in Europe. Stick a note to your steering wheel if you have to – many motorists forget first thing in the morning, or when pulling out of a parking spot. Don’t let yourself forget.

Plot and plan

Plan your route. This will enable you to make the most of your holiday and see as much of your chosen destination as possible, and – should something go wrong – your friends and family will have a good idea of where you are. Green Flag also offers a great Route Planner which can help you sort out your itinerary. 

 Breakdown gear

Some European countries require drivers to carry an emergency warning triangle by law, as well as a reflective jacket, in the car in case of a breakdown. This is good driving practice in any event, but if you do not have the right gear, it’s best to get it before you enter these countries. Italy, Spain, Portugal, Austria and Croatia are all examples of countries where motorists must carry these items at all times.

Drinking on the move

Drinking and driving is illegal all across Europe, and on most of the continent the legal limit is lower than that of the UK, so instead of taking a chance, rather avoid the risk completely. In the Czech Republic, the strictest country in Europe the legal limit is zero - which means no drinking whatsoever when getting behind the wheel.

Breakdown cover

Adequate European breakdown cover is a must. Breaking down while on holiday in Europe could well ruin even the best planned trip, so insure against a nasty surprise by getting good European breakdown cover from Green Flag.

Stick to it

Advice from the foreign office says that it’s best to have a GB sticker clearly visible on the back of your car, wherever you plan to travel in Europe. If your car is more than seven years old it probably won't have this information on your number plate. Avoid an on the spot fine and make sure that sticker stays stuck.

Shining right

UK vehicles have headlamps beams which are adjusted for left hand driving. This needs to be adjusted for right hand driving before you leave the UK – it is compulsory in many European countries – otherwise your head lamps will dazzle oncoming traffic and maybe cause an accident by a blinded driver. Have this looked at long before you leave, as it may take a day or two for your dealer to adjust.

Odd law out

Some European countries have laws which are very different from those of the UK, so do some research before you leave. Your country of choice should have a website which will be able to help you with advice. For example, did you know that it is illegal to run out of petrol on a German motorway? Also, for some European countries a valid UK driving licence is not sufficient, and you may need an International Driving Permit. Not to worry, these can be picked up over the counter at many Post Offices.