EUROPEAN ROAD RULES THAT EVERY DRIVER SHOULD KNOW!

Now that touring abroad is a possibility once more, it might be a good moment to brush up on the driving regulations in your chosen holiday destination.

European road rules can differ from those operating in the UK, and drivers should get to know them.

Numerous websites, including those of the ferry operators and Eurotunnel, the RAC, AA, Greenflag and the Government’s site, provide information about driving in Europe, particularly after the Brexit transition period ends on 31 December.

A list of quirky little differences, put together by car hire comparison site Stressfreecarrental.com, might also be useful if you are crossing borders on your tour. Here are some of them!

No headphones (France, Spain) Drivers in France and Spain are not allowed to use their vehicle while wearing headphones, regardless of whether they’re connected to music or for phone calls.

Mind your manners (Cyprus, Germany) British motorists who make a rude or offensive gesture towards another road user could be punished with a steep fine, so calm any road rage.

Carry spare spectacles

(Portugal, Spain, Switzerland)

If you wear glasses for driving and you’re visiting the Iberian Peninsula or the Swiss Alps, the law requires you to ensure you always have a spare pair in the car.

Keep well fuelled (Germany, Portugal) On autobahns it’s illegal to run out of fuel and the offence carries a heavy fine, while carrying cans of petrol in cars is banned in Portugal.

Bring a breathalyser (France)

It’s the driver’s responsibility to carry a device that’s capable of checking their blood alcohol content.

Engines off by railways (Germany) Drivers must turn off their engines while queuing at a level crossing.