Motorists advised to learn road rules before driving abroad
Motorists intending to drive a vehicle when they go abroad this summer, whether it is their own car or a hire car, are being urged to take some time to get to know the country’s driving laws before putting the keys in the ignition. The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) claims that doing this could save drivers a great deal of stress, as well as potential fines or prosecution.
IAM Chief Examiner, Peter Rodger, explained that those already familiar with the British system should not find it too difficult to understand the regulations of a foreign country, as the rules are probably fairly similar. He added that it was however important that foreign rules should be obeyed at all times. Speed limits should be researched, foreign signs reviewed and priorities should be understood, he went on to say.
As far as foreign signs are concerned, Mr Rodger said that most should be recognisable and those that are not can be worked out with a little common sense. He added that a simple rule to follow is that rectangles inform, triangles warn and circles prohibit.
He went on to say that it is often the case that the rules of the road are more strictly enforced in some foreign countries, and that telling the authorities that you are a tourist and don’t really understand the laws, is not going to win much favour.
Other top tips issued by the IAM to those taking their vehicles abroad with them include double checking insurance policies, planning driving routes carefully before setting out and taking regular breaks to prevent tiredness.