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Up to 16% of people are considering driving their cars abroad over the next 12 months

22nd October 2014 Print

Up to 16% of people are considering driving their own car abroad in the next 12 months, according  to Sainsbury’s Bank car insurance. However the supermarket bank, which provides comprehensive cover in Europe, warns that if they don’t brush up on local motoring laws, they could inadvertently end up breaking the law in the country they’re visiting.

Countries have different legal requirements regarding what should be carried in the vehicle, for example. In France, Croatia, Italy and Norway, it is compulsory to carry a warning triangle.  In all European countries, motorists are required to carry their motor vehicle insurance documentation, and in Germany it is illegal to drive without winter tyres at certain times of the year. In Spain, if you need to wear glasses you have to carry an additional pair when driving.

In France it is also compulsory to carry a breathalyser, and in many European countries, as well as requiring a reflective jacket, first aid kit and headlamp converters for driving at night, motorists are now required to have headlights on in the daytime.

France is by far the most popular driving destination for Britons, with 9% of adults saying they will drive their own car there in the next 12 months. This is followed by Spain (3%), Germany (3%) and Belgium (2%).

Tom Thomson, of Sainsbury’s Bank car insurance said: “We’d recommend brushing up on your holiday destination’s motoring rules before setting off to ensure you stay on the right side of the law. It’s also vital that you tell your insurer before you go or you could find you’re not covered in the country or countries you’re visiting.”

Sainsbury’s Premier Cover Car Insurance offers free European comprehensive cover extension for up to 90 days a year. It also offers Combined UK & EU breakdown cover, available as an optional extra.

Sainsbury’s Premier Cover Car Insurance offers double Nectar points for up to two years on Sainsbury’s Shopping and fuel for those who receive a quote and purchase direct from Sainsbury’s Bank. Customers must renew their policy at first renewal for double Nectar points to continue.

Sainsbury’s Bank car insurance is offering some useful tips and information for those planning to drive overseas:

Do some basic checks on your car to help minimise the risk of breakdowns or accidents, e.g. check tyre pressures, oil, brake fluid and water levels.

Plan your route: invest in a map or use a European route planner on the internet.

Call your car insurer: even if you think you have comprehensive cover abroad, it is worth calling before you leave to double check, or if required, upgrade your policy to include this.

Take your time: set a realistic timescale for your journey to avoid feeling pressured to drive at a pace you don't feel comfortable with, or not take enough breaks. Driving on unfamiliar roads abroad can be even more tiring than usual, so give yourself time and consider planning your route to avoid the centre of major cities where driving is likely to be most stressful.

Check the motoring laws for the countries you are visiting. This can be done free of charge with some organisations. If you are going to be driving in several countries across Europe make a note of the different rules that apply in each country and take this with you.  Make sure you refer to the notes before you cross the border and enter each country.

For further information on Sainsbury’s Bank car insurance, visit sainsburysbank.co.uk.