MOTORING experts have warned holidaymakers to do their research when driving abroad as a few mistakes could land you with a fine.
From running out of fuel, to not locking your car, there are several rules of the road to get to grips with before driving overseas.
GettyHolidaymakers could be landed with a fine if they make a few mistakes when driving[/caption]
GettyIn Australia, drivers can get fined for not locking their vehicles[/caption]
Experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have listed the following 10 motoring laws from across the globe to avoid you getting a fine during your trip.
CEO John Charnock said: “It’s very easy for tourists to forget that different countries have several unfamiliar rules of the road, which they must be aware of whilst driving abroad.
“Motoring laws vary across the globe, you can be fined for not locking your car in most of Australia and it’s advised to honk when passing Prince Edward Island in Canada.
“Several laws may come across as unusual and unknown for road users, but there is no excuse to get to know the local driving customs and rules, else risk receiving hefty fines, and driving penalties – which may travel home with you on your licence.”
Australia – Leaving vehicles unlocked
In Australia, drivers can get fined for not locking their vehicles.
Motorists are therefore advised to triple check their vehicles are locked after parking, even if leaving their car for just a few minutes.
South Africa – Driving without insurance
Unlike many other countries, road users in South Africa do not need to purchase insurance when driving a car.
However, drivers are advised to get one in the instance of extra protection from an accident.
Germany – Running out of fuel
Motorists travelling along the autobahn in Germany need to make sure they have plenty of fuel for their trip as it is illegal to run out of petrol.
This is because stopping on these super-fast roads is against the law.
Spain – Inflatable sex dolls
Following recent rule changes, tourists could now be charged for displaying inflatable sex toys whilst on hen and stag dos in Spain.
Driving or walking around with one on display could lead to fines of more than £600.
UAE – Camels come first
In the UAE, camels are referred to as important symbols and are respected highly in traffic laws.
If a camel is spotted on the road, drivers must give them the right of way.
USA – Turning right on a red light
Most US cities allow motorists to turn right on a red light if there are no other vehicles around, even though they don’t have the right of way.
This rule can save a lot of wasted time for drivers in the country.
In New York City, however, this rule does not apply unless stated otherwise on a road sign.
Cyprus – Eating behind the wheel
For those who get a little peckish on the road, when travelling through Cyprus it is important to remember not to grab a bite to eat whilst driving.
It is also illegal to drink – both alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages – behind the wheel.
India – driving without pollution certificates
Motorists in India could be landed with a hefty fine if they drive without a pollution certificate.
This is to help the impact of air pollution in the country, and drivers must have a pollution control certificate to show that their vehicle is environmentally safe to drive.
UK – Holding your phone
A recent crackdown on phone usage behind the wheel in the UK means it is now illegal to hold a mobile phone, even if it is switched off and not in use, whilst driving.
This rule still applies when stopped at a red light, queuing in traffic or driving a car with start-stop engines.
Canada – Beeping the horn when passing Prince Edward Island
Despite being one of the most famous laws about Prince Edward Island, in eastern Canada, it’s very unlikely drivers actually get charged for not beeping the horn.
However, it is written in the rule books that motorists must honk when overtaking others.
Also in Spain, Brits are being warned to not strip off in the heat, as driving topless could see them slapped with a £170 bill.
Majorca Daily Bulletin reported that while being shirtless isn’t illegal, Spanish law bans anything that impacts safe driving.
That is said to include wearing “inappropriate” clothes and could see holidaymakers slapped with the £170 bill.
The same rules apply to footwear.
In Croatia, making simple mistakes off the road can also land you with a whopping £3,400 fine.
The Croatian city of Split has followed the lead of Dubrovnik and decided to ban walking around the old city centre in a bikini or going shirtless.
Split City Council published the decision in February, and rules will affect tourists as well as locals during the summer.
According to Croatia Week, the bylaw is intended to bring order to the city, especially in Split’s cultural and historic centre.
GettyMotoring experts have listed laws from across the globe to avoid you getting a fine[/caption] Read More