The vehicle financing company LeaseCar.uk has warned motorists planning to get behind the wheel abroad this summer to follow some of the more unique rules not enforced in the UK.
With the summer holidays approaching for many families, tourists who take their own vehicle or hire a car are able to visit local attractions with ease or head out into the countryside to explore more of their destination.
However, a spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk noted that motorists planning to drive a car whilst in either Spain or Germany should remember to stay calm and never swear while on the road.
They advised: “It’s unfortunately common for drivers to get into a bit of a barney behind the wheel. However, European governments are stricter due to aggressive driving contributing to distractions behind the wheel.
“Aggressive driving comes in many forms, but Spain and Germany depict swearing behind the wheel and shouting both to be forms of road rage that can endanger you and others on the road.”
Whilst the severity of the punishment for breaking the law will vary depending on location, motorists who swear behind the wheel in Spain will typically face a fine of €600 (£510).
However, in Germany, the fines that motorists receive will depend on the situation they are in and how much they earn.
Whilst the typical driver in Germany who swears in their vehicle is fined €185 (£157), that figure could soar to an eye-watering €4,000 (£3,390) in the most extreme cases.
LeaseCar.uk’s spokesperson also suggested that drivers in search of the sun whilst away would be wise to pack a spare pair of glasses in case the usual pair a motorist wears breaks.
They added: “As a driver, you are legally required to be able to read a number plate from twenty metres away and to wear prescription eyewear at all times when driving.
“In some European countries, it’s required to always carry a spare pair in case your initial pair of specs are broken. Not doing so could not only land you a fine, but also mean your travel insurance is invalidated should you be involved in an accident.”
Similarly, the spokesperson for the company reminded drivers to brush up on the equipment that must be packed in their vehicle to avoid hefty fines.
They explained: “In the UK, you are not obligated to carry any equipment in your car. However, in European countries, you need to be equipped with certain gear. Some countries are stricter than others, but reflective jackets, hazard triangles, a first aid kit, and, in some cases, a fire extinguisher are frequently required.
“It’s unlikely that you’ll be caught without the equipment unless you’re pulled over by the police but by not carrying it, you’re still breaking the law. For peace of mind, it’s important to conduct research into the specific requirements for the countries you’re driving in, or you risk fines.”
