Drivers warned to prepare for driving abroad this Easter

As the great Easter escape approaches, Saga is reminding drivers to ensure they are fully covered on their insurance if they plan to drive abroad this bank holiday weekend.

Each year 3.1 million UK drivers load up the boot and head over The Channel. However to ensure that traffic jams are the only headaches on the journey, over 50s experts Saga recommend a few basic preparations for your journey:

A pre-trip service for the car is highly recommended, to minimise the risk of breaking down while abroad;

Check the condition of the tyres, including the spare, and consider replacing them before the trip if the tread is down to 3 mm or less;

Headlights should be adjusted for driving on the other side of the road so they don’t dazzle oncoming motorists;

Driving licences and insurance documents are compulsory for driving abroad and should be the first thing you pack;

A warning triangle is mandatory in many countries, and some - for example Spain - expect you to have two to alert drivers approaching from both directions;

A first-aid kit is advisable and mandatory in a few countries including Austria;

Showing a GB identification on the back of the car is compulsory when you drive in Europe, and failing to display one will render you liable to an on-the spot fine.

Many European countries have toll roads so ensure you have plenty of change in the local currency of the countries you are travelling through and to.

Breakdown cover is not a legal requirement, but is highly advisable. Saga’s Premier cover level, offers full cover while in Europe.

As a rule, UK motor insurance policies give drivers legal cover to drive in other EU countries. However, it only ensures third party cover, and it is important to check whether, even with a comprehensive policy, your insurer will cover accidental damage that occurs abroad. Saga Motor Insurance offers EU wide cover for accidental damage and can be extended to many non-EU countries.

Saga’s guide also gives details of the different speed limits that apply in some EU countries and details of the different priorities that apply for different vehicles, i.e. trams or buses.

For a copy of Saga’s guide to European motoring, visit saga.co.uk.