Before any trip to another country by your own car, you need to familiarise yourself with the rules of the road in order to avoid unpleasant situations. Find out more about the specifics of traffic rules in Europe and what to look out for

Insurance policy Green card for traveling abroad by car

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Knowing the rules of the road protects the driver from unpleasant situations on the road and can save lives. The rules in European countries do not differ too much from the Ukrainian ones, but before travelling, it is worthwhile to study in detail the specifics of driving regulations in the country you are heading to. We will tell you about the peculiarities of traffic rules in Europe, how to avoid getting a fine and protect yourself from unpleasant consequences in the article below.

Traffic rules in Europe

Right-hand traffic

Countries with left-hand traffic account for only 28% of the world's countries, while right-hand traffic is observed in 72% of countries.

European countries are no exception - almost all roads are right-hand drive. Only in the UK, Malta and Ireland will you have to get used to driving on the left.

Speed limit

When travelling in Europe by car, it is important to be aware of the traffic rules, as speed limits can vary significantly from country to country.

However, most European countries have common principles: 50 km/h is the speed limit in urban areas, 90 km/h is the speed limit in the countryside, and up to 120 km/h is the permitted speed on motorways, there are exceptions.

For example:

● in Germany, some motorway sections do not have a strict speed limit, but drivers are advised to drive no faster than 130 km/h;
● In the UK, a maximum speed of 48 km/h is allowed in settlements and up to 112 km/h on motorways;
● In Sweden, drivers are required to drive no faster than 80 km/h outside of settlements and no faster than 30 km/h in residential areas.

Reflective vest

The presence of special safety elements in the car is mandatory. When travelling in European countries, it is worth remembering that a reflective vest is mandatory in every car.

The vest should be worn every time you get out of the vehicle onto the carriageway, roadside or stop outside the settlement, in conditions of low visibility (in the dark, during heavy rain, fog, etc.).

Failure to comply with this requirement may result in a fine, the amount of which varies from country to country. For example, in Italy, you can pay a fine of up to €200 for not wearing a life jacket in your car.

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Foglights and radar

In most European countries, the use of anti-radar and fog lights in good visibility is strictly prohibited and punishable by a fine.

The reason for this is that anti-radar devices prevent drivers from adhering to speed limits, which endangers the safety of all road users, and the use of fog lights in good weather shines on other drivers, creating dangerous situations.

Hornsignal

In many European countries, it is now illegal to honk at drivers who are travelling slower than you would like.

Honking creates tension on the road, distracts attention and can lead to dangerous situations.

You should only use the horn in exceptional circumstances when there is a real danger, for example to warn of a dangerous obstacle or to avoid a collision.

Talkingon the phone while driving

In most European countries, it is strictly forbidden to use a mobile phone while driving.

Talking on the phone distracts you from the road, prevents you from reacting to dangerous situations in a timely manner and makes driving dangerous for both the driver and other road users.

To answer a call safely while driving, there are special hands-free or hands-free devices that allow you to have a conversation without being distracted from driving.

Compulsory carinsurance

The Green Card is a mandatory international motor third party liability insurance policy that covers the costs of compensation for damage to life, health and property of third parties caused by road accidents in the territory of the member states of the international Green Card agreement. This insurance is mandatory for crossing the border.

It is better to buy insurance online because it is quick and easy. On the Visit Ukraine portal, you can take out a Green Card policy from a licensed insurer. Packages are available for different periods from 15 days to 1 year for cars and trucks, trailers and semi-trailers for trucks, as well as motorcycles and scooters. Please note that the insurance starts on the day after the policy is issued, so we recommend that you read the terms and conditions in advance and purchase a Green Card.

Please note that depending on the country, traffic rules may vary.

In our previous articles, we told you in detail about everything you need to know when planning a trip to Romania, Moldova and Slovakia by car, as well as about the specifics of traffic rules in the Czech Republic, Germany, Montenegro, Turkey, Italy, France, Portugal, Croatia, Spain and Lithuania.

Remember. Travelling abroad with a child in your own car should be done responsibly. Read here to find out how to cross the border by car with a child and what rules apply to the carriage of children in Europe.

Photo: Freepik

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Are you planning a trip to Europe by car? A Green Card from Visit Ukraine is your reliable protection on European roads. Fast processing, affordable prices and complete peace of mind while travelling. Apply for a Green Card and enjoy a safe trip abroad!

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