People who plan to use their car during their summer holiday have been told they must be particularly careful when driving on unfamiliar roads to make sure they drive safely.
According to GEM Motoring Assist, many Britons are expected to flock overseas this summer in search of sunnier weather – with some intending to drive during their trip abroad.
The organisation has therefore insisted that anyone who is planning to get behind the wheel must prepare carefully and make sure they are able to drive safely and within the law.
Drivers were encouraged to make sure they have useful documents on hand just in case, including their car insurance certificate, contact details for their cover provider, an MOT certificate if their vehicle is over three years old, and their vehicle registration papers.
Motorists were also advised to get their vehicle serviced before heading overseas, so they can be sure it is fit for purpose, with adequate oil and water levels and tyre tread depth.
David Williams, chief executive of GEM Motorist Assist, commented: “Driving in unfamiliar areas always requires maximum attention – and when abroad and on foreign roads, it is even more vital to be fully alert and aware of everything going on around you.”
The organisation has also called on holidaymakers to make sure they are aware of the driving regulations in the country they are visiting, or they may end up inadvertently breaking the rules.
For example, Germany has a much lower drink-drive limit than the UK. Whereas the limit is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood in Britain, it is just 50mg in Germany.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) this week pointed out that this could be “especially crucial when considering the ‘morning after’ effect”.
Drivers should also acquaint themselves with the regulations that are in place in any of the countries they are travelling through on the way to their destination. France, for instance, requires drivers to carry a pack of two disposable breathalysers.
Peter Rodger, chief examiner at the IAM, commented: “The breathalysers must meet NF standards and carry the NF certification.”
