Travelling by car
Good preparation can help you avoid mishaps on your car journeys. Follow our tips for safe driving abroad!
Preparations
Driving long distances in a foreign country can be a stressful experience. So it's important to be prepared. Be sure to have your vehicle serviced before you leave, to reduce the risk of breakdowns.
If you're traveling abroad, find out about traffic regulations and speed limits. Similarly, make sure you are authorized to drive with your license. If not, find out how to obtain an international license. Bear in mind that provisional licenses are only valid in the country where they were issued.
Documents to take with you
Take all the documents and items you may need during your trip. For example, a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, a toolbox, a flashlight, a reflective armband, a warning triangle, etc. may be useful to have in your car.
Don't forget to take your driver's license, car registration document, car assistance papers and insurance certificate with you. It's also a good idea to draw up a list of emergency contacts and carry a second set of keys.
On the road
Once you're on the road, you can be exposed to two types of danger: road insecurity and crime. Local driving can be very different from what you're used to, so it's imperative to be cautious. Make sure all your passengers are wearing seatbelts.
Avoid consuming alcohol, as the permitted blood alcohol level may be much lower than in your country. Do not use your cell phone while driving. If you have an accident, contact your insurer and take photos of your vehicle.
On the road, certain precautions can help you avoid becoming a victim of crime. When driving, lock the doors and close the windows. Avoid driving or parking at night in remote, inaccessible areas.
Keep all your belongings out of sight: remove them from the car or store them in your trunk. Pay attention to your surroundings: thieves usually try to attract your attention by asking for help or pointing out a problem with your vehicle. As a general rule, remain wary. Offenders often work in groups: while one is attracting your attention, another may be trying to steal your car or belongings. Similarly, it's a good idea not to put anything on the passenger seat, even when you're driving: this could encourage a thief to break your window at a red light to steal your belongings. Finally, don't take a hitchhiker.
If you need to rent a car, keep the following recommendations in mind: only rent a vehicle from a reputable company. Try to rent a vehicle model that is widely available in your country. If your car bears any markings identifying it as a rental car, ask for these to be removed.
