10 mistakes that we all make when driving on vacation
Blindly trust the traffic rules
The German motorist loves his traffic rules and he blindly trusts that everyone will stick to it. For him that means: He is not suddenly overtaken on the right, in overtaking prohibition he does not have to reckon with a passing car and traffic signs are God-given laws. Stupid only that not all motorists see the same way abroad!
So be prepared for everything and pay attention to country-specific features, Interestingly enough, the generous ignoring of traffic rules often makes car drivers in other countries more attentive and considerate because they adapt to the situation. For example, it can be explained that there are far fewer serious car accidents in Italy than in Germany.
Honking and jostling instead of overtaking
This is also a very German habit: If a car drives ahead, we like to make our anger with a tight start, flare or even hoot signal air and the other so clearly that he behaves impossibly.
In other countries, but especially in southern Europe, you do not stick with this psycho terror. Instead of complaining, you simply overtake and deal with the problem by yourself. This applies both in town and on the highway? So be prepared!
Driving too fast
Anyone who knows German motorways without speed limits may feel personally offended by the fact that they suddenly have to stick to crazy speed limits while on holiday. But actually you should remember the allowed speeds well, otherwise it can be expensive.
In Italy, for example, speeding violations are subject to much higher penalties than ours. Those who are stopped by the police almost always have to pay in cash. If it gets really hard, the vehicle can even be confiscated. That really does not have to be, because you can easily avoid fine abroad.
Forgot to pay tolls
It can also be expensive if you forget to pay tolls. In Italy, for example, the motorways are subject to a toll of almost 100%. Problematic: With increasing digitization, it is increasingly necessary To pay for sections already in advance on the Internetas the ADAC warns.
If your license plate is scanned at a toll bridge and you have not paid the fee in advance, you will become a tollboarder and that can be expensive. However, in Italy, for example, it is possible to pay the fee online within 15 days.
But think otherwise to have enough cash for toll booths and it is best to bring a credit card as well, According to ADAC, at many toll stations in France, Italy and Spain, it is no longer possible to pay by cash or debit card.
At shoulder glance schludern
We all know how important he is? And yet we neglect the good old shoulder glance far too often. He often seems too schoolbook-wise and with constant traffic observation not so necessary.
But this one look can really save lives, especially when many motorcycle and scooter riders are in the game, as is the case in southern Europe in particular. In Italy, for example, the scooters meander through every little gap and suddenly appear next to the car. Therefore: look over the shoulder!
Do not check safety equipment
Bikini and sunscreen with you? Perfect, then it can start. Or? In some holiday countries, it is important to take a separate look in the trunk.
Are sufficient safety vests available? In some countries, if there is one for the driver, in others it will take as many vests as there are seats in the car. Is there a spare tire or a tire repair kit? Is a warning triangle on board (and do you know where it is)? In France, motorists are also required to carry an alcohol meter. You can buy the chemical or electronic Breath Alcohol Testers in pharmacies, tobacconists, gas stations and in some supermarkets.
Some holiday destinations punish the lack of the right equipment with sensitive fees, so it is worthwhile to know in advance about the requirements.
Parking wrong with a German car
Actually, a clever idea: Parking incorrectly with the registered in Germany car and hope that you can not be prosecuted. But no indication! In many countries tourists are asked directly and in cash.
And that's not all: In Germany, you can still be prosecuted for wrong parking abroad. So you want to take a closer look before you park? even if the locals often do not take it too seriously.
Driving without light during the day
In Germany, it is now common to drive with low beam during the day. But in many holiday countries it is already obligatory. In Sweden, for example, the dipped beam must be used at all times of the day, and in Italy and Hungary daytime running lights outside built-up areas are also mandatory.
But it is also highly recommended in countries where this is not mandatory, for example in Spain, France or Denmark. And for good reason: All road users are easily seen in any weather.
Drive without valid TÜV abroad
Yes, admittedly: Sometimes holidays come back much faster than you can say "TÜV"? and before you know it, you're already sitting in the car, while a simmering hot, that the main investigation would have long been due.
Basically, this does not matter to the authorities in the holiday country, but if it comes to an accident, you can pretty much fall on your feet. Because in doubt, your accident liability insurance will rely on your vehicle no longer complies with the road traffic licensing regulations? and do not pay for the damage. So keep the TÜV deadlines and minimize the risk.
To behave too German
Actually only the others behave too German, right? In truth, we are all but not immune to it. This starts with the vague feeling to feel superior to the other road users alone, that you have learned to drive at home on highways without speed limit? and of course that is the king of the road. Also, the fact that many of us seem to have tattooed the traffic rules tattooed on the retina from the inside is sometimes not very helpful.
So refrain from teaching others, adjust to the flow of traffic in the holiday country ? and you will spend a relaxing holiday. We wish you a nice time!
