Anyone driving abroad can quickly face challenges that they do not encounter in domestic traffic. While the basic traffic rules are largely similar, there are numerous country-specific regulations and signs that can cause confusion.
Dagmar Redel, travel expert of the Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC), emphasizes the need to find out about the specific traffic regulations of the respective country before traveling. After all, ignorance is no excuse. This article highlights some of the most remarkable and sometimes unusual traffic regulations in European and overseas countries.
Traffic rules in international comparison
In the United States, for example, most states allow you to turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop, as long as there is no "No Right Turn" sign. This rule differs significantly from most European countries, where turning on red is generally prohibited. Drivers who are unaware of this rule could quickly find themselves in an unpleasant situation and be fined.
Another example can be found in Sweden, where parking is regulated by date and house number. On days with odd dates, parking is prohibited on the side of odd house numbers and vice versa. This regulation is intended primarily to facilitate snow clearing and is indicated by signs with vertical lines. Drivers who do not comply with this rule risk a fine.
In Italy, special parking markings apply: parking spaces with pink lines are reserved exclusively for pregnant women and parents with children up to two years old. Anyone who parks in such a parking space and does not meet the criteria can expect a fine.
carpool lanes in France
France recently introduced a new road sign showing a white diamond on a blue background. These signs mark special lanes that can only be used by carpools with at least two people in the vehicle.
Taxis, public transport and zero-emission vehicles, including electric cars and hydrogen vehicles, are also allowed to use these lanes. Hybrid vehicles, however, are excluded. This regulation is part of efforts to reduce traffic and promote more environmentally friendly options.
emergency lane regulation in Europe
Another issue that is regulated differently in Europe concerns the formation of emergency lanes. In Austria, the regulation on the formation of an emergency lane in the event of a traffic jam or slow-moving traffic was introduced in 2012. Drivers are obliged to pull over to the side of a multi-lane road in a traffic situation to form a lane for emergency vehicles. However, this regulation does not apply in all European countries.
Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Switzerland, Croatia, Belgium, Luxembourg and Poland have similar regulations on creating an emergency lane. However, there is no such regulation in Italy. In many other European countries, such as most Scandinavian countries, there are no clear regulations and the hard shoulder must be kept clear to make room for emergency vehicles in an emergency.
Education and preparation are crucial
The variety of traffic rules and signs abroad makes it essential to be fully informed before driving abroad. This not only protects you from possible penalties, but also from dangerous situations on the road. The ÖAMTC offers helpful information on its website to help travelers prepare for their journeys.
The recommendations of experts like Dagmar Redel are of great importance. Drivers should carefully study the traffic regulations of the country they are traveling to and, if necessary, be vigilant on site. With the right knowledge and a watchful eye, driving abroad can be safe and stress-free.
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