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13/01/2012
Travelling through Europe by car: avoid fines by knowing the rules

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Travelling through Europe by car: avoid fines by knowing the rules

ECC is setting up an overview of the main rules in 29 European countries.

Looking forward to a few days of nice weather and long weekends, we like to plan trips not too far from home. When travelling to another European country by car you need to be aware of local traffic rules and regulations.

Overview of rules in 29 countries

To help you avoid problematic situations and fines, ECC provides a summary of the main rules drivers need to observe in 29 European countries (all EU countries plus Norway and Iceland).

The table was produced by ECC Belgium in conjunction with the 28 other ECCs that are part of ECC-Net. It provides information on the following:

  • motorway speed limits
  • whether you need to drive with your lights switched on during the day
  • whether winter tyres are required
  • whether it is mandatory for a cyclist to wear a helmet and/or high visibility jacket
  • whether it is mandatory to have a high visibility jacket inside the car
  • maximum blood alcohol content
  • road, bridge and tunnel tolls
  • toll amounts.

To obtain more detailed information or an up to date report, ECC recommends that prior to departure you contact a motoring organisation or the Belgian Federal Public Services Foreign Affairs website.

Items of specific importance

You have to carry a warning/hazard triangle throughout the European Union. In some countries a first aid kit and fire extinguisher are also mandatory. Some countries impose additional rules, including the following:

  • In Spain you must carry spare bulbs and, if you wear spectacles, a spare set of glasses.
  • In Germany you must display a Umweltplakette (environment sticker) when entering an ever increasing number of cities.
  • In Italy you must not enter some historic city centres by car or you will be fined.
  • Still in Italy, the barriers on toll roads will open even if your credit card payment failed. If you don’t pay up within 15 days, you will incur an additional fine, which may not arrive at your home address until years later.

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