Don’t get caught offside on the Autobahn this World Cup

As England football fans will be travelling to Germany next month, Churchill Insurance warns those who are planning to motor their way from Frankfurt to Berlin to brush up on their Autobahn Code and check their insurance policy.

Motorists driving abroad are in danger of unwittingly having less cover than they realise, and should they breakdown or be involved in an accident they may end up with a bill that’s bigger than the cost of their holiday.

All insurers are required to cover third party cover for travel abroad at no extra cost, but this will not cover any damage or loss to the driver’s own vehicle or possessions.

Churchill car insurance policyholders do not need to notify their insurer that they are driving in Europe, as they are automatically covered to drive at the same level as in the UK for up to 90 days at a time – unlike many insurers who will charge an additional fee, or only offer very limited free cover.

Frances Browning, spokesperson for Churchill Car Insurance said: “Whilst many fans will have their mind on England’s performance on the pitch, motorists should check their policy before leaving on their trip. Churchill motorists who become involved in an accident abroad can have peace of mind knowing that their vehicle will be either repaired locally or repatriated to the UK for repair. Those that aren’t fully covered could face an average hefty repatriation charge of around £800.”

Churchill offers the following handy guide to the driving laws in Germany for fans taking their car abroad:

When in Germany, do as the Germans do – they drive on the right hand side of the road

Drink-driving laws are stricter than in the UK – they only allow 0.5 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood - the UK’s limit is 0.8

You must have a first-aid kit handy as well as a warning triangle, as it is compulsory to carry these

Speeding carries hefty on-the-spot fines

In fact, on-the-spot fines are issued for every possible driving offence you can think of, and if you don’t have enough cash on you then your car may be impounded

Speed limits are 50km/h in the town and 100 km/h on other roads. Autobahns don’t have a general speed limit (the blue speed signs have a recommended 130km/h limit), although certain sections are covered by speed limits which must be adhered to at all times (distinguished by a red circle with the speed inside)

You must wear front and rear seat belts at all times

Frances Browning continues: “It is important to read up on the driving laws of the country that you visit when driving abroad and especially in Germany, where the rules are strictly enforced. You may be unknowingly caught and hit for an on-the-spot fine for as little as not having a first-aid kit in the car.”