News

Motorists heading abroad this summer are being reminded to remember they may well have to face different an unexpected driving laws.

Many drivers heading onto the continent could well find themselves facing on-the-spot fines or even have their car confiscated for breaking laws they did not realise were in place.

David Williams, chief executive of GEM, which has issued the warning, said: "We may consider road regulations in the UK to be rigorous and extreme, but our legal requirements for being on the road are straightforward compared to some in Europe."

Examples given of things to look out for include the fact it is an offence to run out of fuel on a German motorway, while carrying a petrol can in Greece is also forbidden.

Motorists who wear glasses in Spain have to keep a spare pair in the car and in Italy police can impound cars if the driver cannot present relevant ownership documents when requested.

In Denmark, cars towing caravans are not allowed to overtake on motorways at certain times of day and cyclists often have priority over cars, while after hitting an elk in Finland it's necessary to report it to the police.

Motorists are advised to check up on a country's driving rules before they head off.


© Adfero Ltd