Driving abroad can be a great experience, giving you the ability to experience different countries and cultures whilst also having the personal freedom of still having your own car nearby. Taking your car abroad also allows you to unlock some of the finest driving roads in Europe. However before setting off you will need to make a few preparations to ensure you stay safe and legal throughout your journey.
While preparing for your trip through Europe you must ensure that you have the proper documents with you. These documents include a UK license, which is valid, vehicle registration, and insurance paperwork. You may also need a MOT certificate if your car is more than three years old.
It is important to check with your motor insurance company that you are covered when driving abroad. Most policies will allow you a certain number of days of European motoring as standard, although you should check to be sure. If you plan to visit a country outside the EU then you may need to carry a green card insurance document as well.
If you do not plan to take your own car, but are using a hire car instead you should check which countries you are allowed to drive in. You should also make sure you have an official document that states that you are permitted to drive the vehicle.
When taking your vehicle you will either need GB stickers or a modern Europlate. The modern number plate will have the necessary information needed to travel with your car. European countries drive on the right side of the road, which means you need to change your headlamps. This can be done by using reflector stickers on the lenses. If you have the HID xenon lamps your car will have a switch that properly positions the lights.
The legal requirements on which type of emergency kit you need to carry in your car varies from country to country. However if you make sure you pack the following items you will cover the majority of eventualities, a warning triangle, spare car bulbs kit, first aid kit, fire extinguisher and a reflective waistcoat.
European countries do not like the use of radar speed detection equipment, though we know how much you want to test your vehicle on the open road. You could find legal issues by using such a device, especially in France. The police have been known to take the equipment away. It is best to leave any detection equipment you own at home before taking the trip in your vehicle to avoid the issue in France and other countries.
In most European countries the Police have the power to hand out on the spot fines so it ' s a good idea to carry plenty of local currency, otherwise your car may be temporarily confiscated whilst you are taken off to the nearest cash point to get some money. Be aware that in many countries the maximum speed limit and maximum blood alcohol level is a lot lower than in the UK, so obey local speed signs at all times, which may be in kilometres per hour, and do not drink and drive.
If you want a magnificent holiday overseas there are certain steps to take in order to prepare for it. The above information will help you learn what you need to know regarding motoring overseas. One last tip for you is to remember that in Europe people drive on the right side of the road. It is an obvious statement, but it can be easy to get confused, especially at roundabouts or crossroads.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment