Phew! Driving topless in Spain could get you £180 fine

TOURISTS driving abroad this summer risk penalties worth hundreds of euros if they fail to observe local laws, experts are warning.

But the rules aren’t always obvious. For example, you need to carry a breathalyser in your car in France and keep your shirt on in Spain.

Research from pay-bymile insurer By Miles suggests many people fail to realise that locals drive on the right in Spain and France, Spanish authorities can issue €200 (£180) fines to those driving topless, and exceeding annual mileage limits can invalidate insurance policies.

Among the items motorists are expected to keep in their vehicles in France as well as the breathalyser are a warning triangle, high-visibility jacket and spare headlight bulbs. Failure to comply can result in on-the-spot fines if caught.

The RAC motoring group warns that using a mobile phone at the wheel in the Netherlands can result in a €240 charge.

Drink driving would cost a minimum €500 fine in Germany. The legal alcohol limit in popular holiday destinations such as France, Germany and Spain is 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood – stricter than 80 milligrams in the UK (excluding Scotland, which is also 50).

Speeding can set you back €200 in the Netherlands and €150 in Belgium. Not wearing a seatbelt could trigger a €200 fine in Spain.

A string of French cities – including Paris, Lyons and Marseilles – operate low pollution zones. Motorists are required to display the correct clean air stickers on their windshield, identifying a vehicle’s emission levels, or risk a fine. Some cars may be banned from entering city centres during peak times of day.

To apply for the sticker, called a ‘Crit’Air vignette’, visit the official website at certificat-air.gouv.fr/en. James Blackham, of By Miles, says: ‘Little known rules often catch drivers out.’ In a separate warning, he says: ‘Don’t presume your car insurer automatically gives you the same cover you have at home – some drop to thirdparty cover only once outside the UK.’

For advice on driving in Europe, visit rac.co.uk and click on ‘news and advice’.