Differences in the traffic rules of Ukraine and Europe

Are you planning a trip to Ukraine by car? Check out the key differences in the traffic rules of Ukraine and Europe: speed limits, pedestrian priority, alcohol content, lighting requirements, and car insurance. Be prepared for your trip and ensure your safety on Ukrainian roads!

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When traveling to Ukraine by car or renting a car locally, it is important to know the local traffic rules (SDA). Ignorance or violation of traffic rules can lead to fines, accidents, or even deprivation of license.

Let's look at the key points that drivers traveling to Ukraine need to know.

Main differences in traffic rules

Ukrainian traffic rules are similar to European ones, but there are a number of important differences that are worth considering.

Speed limits

In Ukraine:

- 50 km/h in populated areas;

- 90 km/h outside of settlements;

- 110 km/h on roads for cars;

- 130 km/h on highways.

However, some cities may have additional speed limits, especially near schools, hospitals, or pedestrian zones.

In Europe: Limits may vary from country to country. For example, in Poland:

- 50 km/h in populated areas;

- 90 km/h outside settlements;

- 120 km/h on expressways;

- 140 km/h on highways.

It is important to note that in some countries, such as France and Germany, reduced speed limits may apply on wet surfaces.

Use of dipped beam headlights

In Ukraine: the use of dipped beam headlights is mandatory from October 1 to May 1 outside of populated areas. This is necessary for better visibility of vehicles during short daylight hours and bad weather.

In Europe: In some countries, such as Poland, dipped beam headlights must be on all year round, regardless of the time of day. In other countries, such as Germany, this requirement may only apply in low visibility conditions.

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Permissible blood alcohol level

In Ukraine: the permissible blood alcohol level is 0.2 ppm. Exceeding this level can result in significant fines, driver's license revocation, or even arrest.

In Europe: the permissible level of alcohol varies from country to country:

Poland - 0.2 ppm;

Germany - 0.5 ppm (but for beginners with less than 2 years of driving experience - 0.0);

Czech Republic and Hungary - 0.0 ppm (complete ban on drinking alcohol before driving).

It is important to pay attention to local regulations, as fines can be very high.

Pedestrian priority

In Ukraine: Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians on pedestrian crossings. However, some drivers may ignore this rule, so pedestrians often exercise extra caution.

In Europe: In many countries, such as Poland or France, pedestrians have priority even when approaching a crosswalk. Drivers are required to stop if they see a pedestrian about to cross the road.

Using cell phones while driving

In Ukraine: using cell phones without a hands-free headset is prohibited. The fine for violating this rule can be several thousand hryvnias.

In Europe: most countries have similar rules, but the fines are much higher. For example, in Germany, the fine for using a phone while driving can reach 100 euros, and in France - more than 130 euros.

🔹 Take care of your safety! In addition to car insurance, it is also worth having health insurance with war risk coverage, which will help you get quality medical care in any conditions.

Other important differences

Reflective vest:Inmany European countries (France, Italy, Spain), drivers are required to have a reflective vest in their car and use it when stopped on the road. In Ukraine, this is not mandatory.

Circular traffic: In Ukraine, you can often find unregulated intersections with circular traffic, where the main road is indicated by signs. In most European countries, there is a rule that gives priority to vehicles moving in a circle.

Car insurance in Ukraine: what foreign drivers need to know

Foreign drivers who plan to drive in Ukraine should be aware of compulsory car insurance.

The Green Card is an international insurance that is mandatory for entering Ukraine by car. Drivers need to obtain it in advance in their home country or at the border.

Motor Third Party Liability Insurance (MTPL) is an analog of the Green Card for cars registered in Ukraine. It covers the costs of compensating third parties in the event of an accident.

Mini CASCO is an additional insurance policy that covers damage to your own car even in cases where the driver is at fault. This is a particularly useful option for foreigners who rent a car in Ukraine.

Why is it worth taking out Mini CASCO?

- Protection against damage regardless of the culprit of the accident.

- Coverage of the risks of minor accidents, theft or natural disasters.

- Possibility of quick reimbursement of expenses without judicial procedures.

- Peace of mind and safety while traveling in Ukraine.

When planning a trip to Ukraine by car, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the local rules, take out the necessary insurance and be prepared for possible road situations.

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Just a reminder! Since 1 January 2025, new car insurance rules have been in force in Ukraine, which have significantly changed the system of pricing for CTP policies. Find out how much a CTPCI policy will cost in 2025 here.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

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Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

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