1 July 2011

Tips when driving abroad

Driver training specialist The Institute of Advanced Motorists UK is offering motoring tips to drivers on how to avoid the major pitfalls of driving on the continent. The advice also applies to Irish drivers who plan to take their car abroad for the summer holidays.

▪ If you have a co-driver (or someone who can help), agree that before setting off they will remind the driver which side to drive on after every stop.

▪ Get used to driving on the right when you arrive by using the motorway, where signs and traffic flow will help you take the right position.

▪ Overtaking will be more difficult in a right-hand-drive car as your view will be blocked. Pull back from the vehicle in front to improve your field of vision.

▪ In some European countries drivers approaching from the right have priority. A yellow diamond sign shows that you are on a road which has right of way over roads joining it. You’ll see them on many main European roads. If the yellow diamond sign is crossed out, you no longer have right of way, so be cautious.

▪ European countries have low drink drive limits – in France, Spain and Italy the limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood.  If you do drink in the evening, you might still be over the limit the next morning.

▪ Many countries on the continent require you to carry equipment such as warning triangles, reflective jackets and spare bulbs. Check the regulations before you travel.

 Do your homework before you go for a safe and fuel-efficient journey.