driving you mad on holiday…
At this time of year we anticipate many
motorists will be looking forward to their summer holidays. For
many, this will involve driving overseas.
Some rules of the road are of universal
application: keeping to speed limits, ensuring a safe and competent
standard of driving at all times,etc. However some rules of the
road in some countries are not so common.
For example, in Italy it is compulsory to have
headlights on at all times when driving outside of built up
areas. In Cyprus it is illegal to drink anything, including of
course, water, whilst driving. We imagine this might cause problems
in Cyprus of all places.
If holidaying in Russia this year, one would
be well advised to pack a sponge and a cloth. This is because it is
actually illegal to drive a dirty vehicle in Russia. We suppose
this might be one way of keeping the children occupied, although
they may not see it that way.
Some rules are even more 'localised'.
In some Spanish cities, cars must be parked on
the side of the road where houses bear uneven numbers on uneven
days of the month and on the side of even numbers on even days.
Many people enjoy going on 'fly-drive'
holidays in the United States of America. When going on such a
holiday and planning on driving in California, then please note
that it is illegal for a woman to drive a vehicle in California
whilst wearing a dressing gown.
Most hire car companies are able to provide
definitive guidance about local rules of the road and one should
always consult with them first if the intention is to drive while
travelling abroad.
Blake Lapthorn's Motoring
Offences team regularly assists motorists from all over the
country. It is able to provide assistance if drivers are prosecuted
for any motoring offence in the UK, whether for speeding,
drink driving, or failing to identify the driver of a motor
vehicle. Unfortunately, the team is unlikely to be able
to help a UK driver stopped by the Los Angeles Police Department
whilst still in their dressing gown.
In all of the above circumstances we would
advise that drivers seek the advice of a local lawyer who is
familiar with the laws of that particular state.
Visit our holiday claims webpages for
more information on compensation claims for accidents
abroad.
