Tips for drivers hitting foreign roads

2/6/14

By Will Roberts

Motorists are being urged to take a couple of basic precautions to defend themselves and other people on foreign roads this summer season.

Thousands of Brits will be driving their vehicles abroad this summer time, but there are additional considerations which need to have to be taken into account, according to driver coaching specialist the Institute of Sophisticated Motorists (IAM).

The IAM’;s Drive & Survive series delivers motoring ideas to drivers and its education manager, Simon Elstow, said there are a quantity of issues which people must be aware of ahead of getting behind the wheel abroad.

Mr Elstow mentioned it is essential to verify your vehicle prior to travelling.

Foreign roads

This means placing it in for a service if needed and checking items like tyre stress and tread and topping up oil and coolant.

Further miles also mean added put on and tear, so it is essential you check things like tyres, windscreens, mirrors and lights both just before and each and every day in the course of your trip.

Foreign roads need to have the driver to concentrate far more than UK roads.

You will be driving on the appropriate hand side of the road, so drivers and passengers need to remind each and every other of this every single time they set out in the car.

Things to pack

If driving for any length of time, comfort breaks need to be taken every single couple of hours to hold drivers feeling refreshed.

Every person who is planning on driving abroad wants to pack their licence, driving licence counterpart, vehicle registration document (V5), insurance certificate and passports (for those travelling).

The automobile itself need to be fitted with a GB sticker, though 1 is not required if the car’;s number plate has the GB euro-symbol.

The headlights also want to be fitted with stickers to adjust the beam direction so oncoming drivers are not dazzled.

Driving laws

There are also other legal needs.

In France, by law you need to carry a breathalyser, although several European countries demand automobiles to have reflective jackets and warning triangles.

Mr Elstow said: “If you happen to be preparing to drive in Europe, you will need to have to be aware that driving laws and regulations differ from country to nation.

“Even if you are organizing to merely pass through a country, you will require to be aware of their regulations for touring drivers. Program and prepare for your trip abroad and get up to speed with the neighborhood guidelines of the road.”

Tips for drivers hitting foreign roads