What you need to know about driving in a foreign country
Driving holidays are becoming ever more popular, with 12 million Brits opting to drive abroad rather than fly. Massive fuel surcharge increases have pushed up the costs of flights, and with transport networks more accessible than ever before, driving abroad is becoming more appealing.
www.motorinsurance.co.uk provides the facts on what you need to know about driving in a foreign country.
Paperwork
When travelling abroad remember to take all the necessary paperwork with you that you might need. This includes:
- driving license (paper and photo card part)
- a copy of your motor insurance policy
- vehicle registration document
- a copy of your latest MOT and service document
- contact details for your insurance company’s customer service and claims lines
If travelling in Europe it may also be beneficial to take a copy of the European Accident Statement. This form is designed to get an agreed statement of facts from all parties involved, in the event of a road accident. This should make any subsequent claims easier.
Some countries require you to have an International Driving Permit, in conjunction with your UK driving license. These can be obtained over the counter at most post offices. For some non European countries, a green card may be required in order for you to drive so contact your insurer to clarify the cover for this.
Check your Cover
Check the terms and conditions of your insurance policy carefully. Make sure you’re covered to drive abroad and to the same level as you are in the UK. If you are travelling a long way it might be a good idea to get someone else on the trip insured on your policy, so that they can share the driving with you. Don’t rely on their policy covering them to drive other vehicles, as this no longer comes as standard with some policies. With some policies, there are certain time limits for how long you can spend abroad in any one period, so be sure to check with your insurer if you have any doubts.
Check your breakdown cover to ensure you will be assisted whilst abroad should anything happen. Find out the procedure for getting back to the UK in the event your car is un-driveable.
Plan your route
When travelling abroad it’s important to plan your route. Getting lost in a place where no-one speaks your language can be a nightmare, and can cost you extra time and money.
Be aware that many countries have hefty charges for using their motorways. In Europe the most substantial use of toll roads is in France, where most of the ‘autoroutes’ carry quite heavy tolls. In Hungary every motorway is a toll road.
Research the local area
Driving laws can vary from country to country. There are different motorway and town speed limits in each country. Laws like drink driving limits and the policy on using mobile phones whilst driving can vary. For example in Croatia, it is strictly forbidden for anyone under the age of 24 to drink any alcohol before driving. Since July 2008 it is compulsory in France to carry a warning triangle and reflective jacket in your vehicle, and there are similar rules in many other countries.
Check your vehicle over before you go
The last thing you need when you’re on holiday is to break down. Make sure you get your car serviced or at least checked before you go. Check basic items like tyre pressure, coolant level, oil level etc – these are only minor items but could cause a major problem. If you do get into trouble, you may find yourself at the nearest garage rather than the best, and costs could be a lot more than here in the UK.
Remember, a driving holiday is an adventure – plan well and it should all go off without a hitch!
