UK Drivers Risk Brush With Cops While On Holiday

Travel insurance is often touted as the first line of protection against crooks, but it can also prove handy when (inadvertently or not) tourists step onto the other side of the law.

A poll by the travel insurance industry has revealed that almost half of all Britons risk a brush with the local gendarmerie when driving in Europe.

Although GB stickers are a legal requirement when driving in both France and Spain, only 56 per cent of drivers remember to pack one while on the continent.

Warning triangles are also a compulsory requirement in France ignored or forgotten by 40 per cent of drivers, as are spare light bulbs and reflective clothing in Spain, not taken by 25 per cent of drivers.

In a worst case scenario, some continental police forces are even empowered to impound cars, leaving motorists stuck on the side of the road.

"It seems that we need to do a bit more research about European destinations before we travel," said a travel insurance spokesman.

"By omitting to pack the required safety equipment, people could find themselves facing unnecessary fines if they get stopped by the police abroad," he added.

Top Tips for driving abroad:

•    Check your car insurance will cover you in the country or countries you are visiting.
•    Make sure your roadside recovery insurance is up to date.
•    Make sure you take all the relevant documents – driving license, international driving permit (if required), vehicle registration document, MOT, valid insurance certificate.
•    Visa – you may need these for certain countries.
•    Don’t leave valuables in the car or on show.
•    Do not drink and drive abroad in many countries there is zero tolerance on any amount of alcohol in your system.
•    Make sure you have adequate medical insurance – this is usually covered in your travel insurance, read the small print.
•    Check you have the right money or that your credit cards will be accepted in the places you are visiting.
•    Show your GB sticker if you are in your own car.
•    Check for any local rules and regulations and make sure you comply.

If you would like to know more about holidays why not ask AnswerBank Travel.