Press Releases
Tips for Driving Abroad
4th July 2008
(Source: IAM
)
With the summer holiday season beginning it’s time to consider the preparations you need to make if you are planning to drive abroad.
Whether you will be driving in your own vehicle or hiring, road traffic regulations can vary widely from country to country and getting your head around these can be a daunting task. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) have prepared some simple tips to help you understand what it is you’ll need to know while away.
The Law: Most countries legislation is similar to the UK; however, it’s worth checking you know how local laws will affect you. For example, the drink drive limit in Germany is 50mg per 100ml of blood compared with 80mg in the UK. Don’t be tempted to drink and drive while on holiday.
Documents: Whilst driving abroad you may need your full driving licence, with paper counterpart, an international driving permit in some countries, the vehicle registration document and your insurance details.
Services: Service stations are widely accessible in the UK. Some countries have petrol stations which are few and far between. It is worth getting an idea of how frequently you will need to fill up. This will ensure you don’t end up running out of fuel before you get the chance to reach the next station.
Breaking Down: Different countries expect motorists to carry a variety of items, in case of a break down. For example, it is now compulsory to carry a yellow jacket in France, and a first aid it in Croatia.
Camera Detectors: Some countries, such as Switzerland and Germany, prohibit the use of safety camera detectors and it’s worth checking the law of the country you are visiting, prior to arriving. If your sat nav has built in detectors you may have to switch this facility off.
Driving on the left or right: In European countries, they drive on the ‘other’ side of the road. This can be confusing at first so you may need to concentrate harder. Remind yourself with the mantra “Think right, look left.”
ENDS
341 Words
NOTES TO EDITORS
1.Issued by the IAM Press Office, telephone 020 8996 9777. We have an ISDN line for interviews.
2. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) directly influences the driving and riding of more than 160,000 road users a year (full members, associates and commercial clients) in the UK and Ireland. Established in 1956, the IAM is today best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving course. The IAM has grown to become the UK’s leading road safety charity, dedicated to raising driving standards, engaging with the road-using public and influencing road safety policy. IAM Fleet, the corporate arm of the IAM, has two subsidiary companies, Drive & Survive and Fleet Ireland. It also operates IAM Pro-Drive.
3. A 2006 report by Brunel University, following an 18 month study, concluded that “advanced driver training produces safer drivers and lower accident involvement”, with measurable improvements in knowledge, skills and attitude. The “Driving Tips” provided by the IAM are part of our broader road safety mission and not intended as a substitute for the advanced driving course.
4. In January 2007, the IAM Motoring Trust was established as the research and advocacy arm of the IAM. The IAM Motoring Trust will undertake research, promote practical policies, act as an advocate for safer roads, safer drivers and safer vehicles and encourage responsible motoring through education and training.
Kerry Bonner
Public Affairs Assistant
Tel: 0208 996 9662
Fax: 0208 996 9603
Web: www.iam.org.uk
Charity No. 249002
Registered in England No.562530
Institute of advanced Motorists Limited
Registered Office:
IAM House
510 Chiswick High Road
London
W4 5RG
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