Many British citizens takeadvantage of the proximity of the European continent and hit the roads insummer, taking in the great views, culture, cuisine and exciting destinations.
Taking Europe by storm in yourcar is a great idea, but there are laws in place, which all members of thedriving community must follow. Avoid a run in with the long arm of the law andfollow these great tips from Green Flag, a UK company which offers motoringassistance to drivers, breakdown insurance and much more.
Drivingright
It's only the UK and Irelandwhich drive on the left, so make an effort to never forget to drive on theright hand side of the road when driving in Europe. Stick a note to yoursteering wheel if you have to ? many motorists forget first thing in themorning, or when pulling out of a parking spot. Don't let yourself forget.
Plotand plan
Plan your route. This willenable you to make the most of your holiday and see as much of your chosendestination as possible, and ? should something go wrong ? your friends andfamily will have a good idea of where you are. Green Flag also offers a great Route Planner which can helpyou sort out your itinerary.
Breakdown gear
Some European countriesrequire drivers to carry an emergency warning triangle by law, as well as areflective jacket, in the car in case of a breakdown. This is good drivingpractice in any event, but if you do not have the right gear, it's best to getit before you enter these countries. Italy, Spain, Portugal, Austria andCroatia are all examples of countries where motorists must carry these items atall times.
Drinkingon the move
Drinking and driving isillegal all across Europe, and on most of the continent the legal limit islower than that of the UK, so instead of taking a chance, rather avoid the riskcompletely. In the Czech Republic, the strictest country in Europe the legallimit is zero - which means no drinking whatsoever when getting behind thewheel.
Breakdowncover
Adequate European breakdown cover is a must. Breakingdown while on holiday in Europe could well ruin even the best planned trip, soinsure against a nasty surprise by getting good European breakdown coverfrom Green Flag.
Stickto it
Advice from the foreign officesays that it's best to have a GB sticker clearly visible on the back of yourcar, wherever you plan to travel in Europe. If your car is more than sevenyears old it probably won't have this information on your number plate. Avoidan on the spot fine and make sure that sticker stays stuck.
Shiningright
UK vehicles have headlampsbeams which are adjusted for left hand driving. This needs to be adjusted forright hand driving before you leave the UK ? it is compulsory in many Europeancountries ? otherwise your head lamps will dazzle oncoming traffic and maybecause an accident by a blinded driver. Have this looked at long before youleave, as it may take a day or two for your dealer to adjust.
Oddlaw out
Some European countries havelaws which are very different from those of the UK, so do some research beforeyou leave. Your country of choice should have a website which will be able tohelp you with advice. For example, did you know that it is illegal to run outof petrol on a German motorway? Also, for some European countries a valid UKdriving licence is not sufficient, and you may need an International DrivingPermit. Not to worry, these can be picked up over the counter at many PostOffices.
Simon has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Improvement, Insurance and Adventure Travel. Greenflag offers European breakdown cover for you. For more information, visit http://www.greenflag.com.. Simon's top article generates over 165000 views. Bookmark Simon to your Favourites.
