Driving in Europe - key considerations

Driving in Europe - key considerations

Driving in Europe - key considerations

Driving in Europe can be a very different experience to driving in the UK. Even though many road laws are governed by the European Union, these can vary from country to country - and the UK is perhaps the biggest variation of all. This can sometimes make it challenging to acclimatise yourself to driving on the continent.

Remembering to drive on the right is one of the most fundamental changes to driving style once you cross the English Channel, and will affect the way you enter and exit motorways and tackle roundabouts too. Spending some time preparing for this shift in driving style before you set off on your journey could lead to fewer mistakes later on, as could preparing other aspects of your trip.

Things that need to prepared in advance of your departure range from fitting a GB sticker to your vehicle to denote your nationality - compulsory within the EU, and liable for an on-the-spot fine if you're found to be in breach - to informing your car insurer if you'll be taking your vehicle abroad. Even if you're planning on hiring a car, you should check whether your insurance will extend to accidents and breakdowns in Europe.

Other road laws tend to vary from country to country too, which could mean you accidentally break local laws without realising it. Making sure you don't consume more than two units of alcohol is an essential consideration - though some countries are even less tolerant - and you should ensure you have all the correct documentation to prove your nationality and the origin of your vehicle if these are asked for.

It's not just legal issues that need to be considered when heading to Europe - you should also consider when and where to travel. If you're hoping to see the unspoilt scenery of the French Alps, Bavarian Germany and other picturesque destinations, travelling outside of peak season is essential to avoid traffic jams of other tourists who had the same idea.

If you're planning on spending some time in several cities, it could also be more economical to arrange car rental in each city you visit and take the train between destinations for longer journeys, rather than using the same car for your whole trip. Be aware that some roads in Europe have no speed limits, such as Germany's famous Autobahn network, and be prepared to deal with higher speed traffic than you may be used to.

Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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