British tourists at risk of ‘on the spot big fines’ driving in Europe this summer
British tourists driving in Europe this summer have been warned they could be hit with ‘big fines' on the spot. Several key rules have changed for drivers in top destinations including France.
British tourists will need to watch out for hefty ‘on the spot’ fines in Europe this summer as several driving rules may have changed since their last holiday.
Post Office Travel Money has issued a warning for Britons heading to key destinations such as Spain and France this summer.
According to the team’s research, a third of Britons are planning on driving their own car or renting one for a European holiday.
However, a whopping two in five were unaware of new road rules in top destinations. Breaking one of the rules could see tourists hit with a heavy fine.
The research found that over 40 percent of Britons are unaware of new low emission zones in many of the continent’s leading destinations.
READ MORE Cruise guest complains holiday felt like ‘boot camp’ [LATEST]
Laura Plunkett, head of Travel Money at the Post Office, said: “With flight costs reported to be soaring, it is understandable that so many Britons have decided to drive to Europe this summer.
“However, it is worrying that many people have changed since their last trip and they could be risking big fines if they don’t learn the rules of the road.
“Popular destinations like France and Spain have long been operating spot fines so it is crucial for holiday motorists to carry foreign currency with them in case they are stopped for speeding or falling foul of new rules.”
Don't miss...
‘Gorgeous’ destination crowned the world’s safest country - full list [INSPIRATION]
‘Lovely’ British seaside town crowned one of the best summer spots [STAYCATION]
Crew member exposes ‘worst behaviour’ from a cruise passenger [CRUISE]
The team also recommends planning driving routes carefully as the cost of filling a car with petrol can vary by as much as £100 across the continent. For example, filling the car in neighbouring Andorra is far cheaper than in Spain.
Tourists should also carry some foreign currency as not all foreign petrol stations will accept cash payments.
It’s also a good idea to skip the motorway and take a route through local towns as supermarket prices will be far cheaper than on main roads as is the case in the UK.
Post Office holiday driving tips
- Get to know the new motoring rules in the countries where you plan to drive
- Carry foreign cash to deal with speeding or parking fines
- Check the level of breakdown assistance cover you have for Europe
- Check fuel costs in the countries where you plan to drive and plan detours to save cash
- Avoid filling up on the motorway
- Make sure your driving licence is legal in Europe